BREEDERS' CUP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

October 31, 2026

Ryusei Sakai

TO Elvis

Keeneland Race Course

Sprint

Press Conference

THE MODERATOR: We're here with jockey Ryusei Sakai. Congratulations on the win with TO Elvis in the sprint. Coming off a long layoff and then very far back early. Was that your plan where you had him placed in the race?

RYUSEI SAKAI: I was expecting it will be a strong pace, and I was expecting landing that position because he ran the last time at Churchill Downs sprint was 7 furlongs, and now distance-wise it's getting shorter. So I expected that position.

I was able to get the position if I wanted, but I really didn't want to make any change to his rhythm. So that's why I landed there.

THE MODERATOR: What a great performance by him. You've had a lot of success in a very short amount of races in America with Forever Young, and we'll see you again in the Classic coming up with Forever Young.

It must mean a lot to come over here and win these Breeder's Cup championship races and all these big races in America.

RYUSEI SAKAI: The biggest reason is I have a great horse to ride. So that's why I had a really great performance in USA.

I never ever think about which country where I ride. I try my best as I can. So just no particular in America or whenever.

THE MODERATOR: Congratulations again and good luck in the Classic.

RYUSEI SAKAI: I'd like to say one thing. Just you ask me like I have a short mount in United States, so I'd like to come back in United States next year in summer at the Saratoga.

If I'm able to get the opportunity to ride in Saratoga at that meeting time, I'd like the challenge of racing in America.

Thank you.