Japan is responsible for eight of the 15 runners declared for the Dubai World Cup. Fresh from a spectacular front-running performance in the G1 Saudi Cup, Panthalassa will be the centre of focus among Japanese racing fans and form students alike.

Panthalassa's success in his first start on dirt in the $10m Saudi Cup has propelled the son of Lord Kanaloa to the position of third highest earning horse in Japanese racing history.

Reigning Dubai World Cup winner Country Grammar aims to reverse placings of the Saudi Cup when he was narrowly beaten by Panthalassa. The British-trained Algiers is unbeaten in two starts on Meydan dirt this year and will likely feature prominently in the finish.

Cafe Pharoah, Geoglyph, and Crown Pride, who finished 3-4-5 in Riyadh are set to reoppose in the DWC. Kawasaki Kinen winner Ushba Tesoro and JRA-G1 winners Vela Azul, Jun Light Bolt and T O Keynes complete the formidable Japanese line-up.

Dubai World Cup night is scheduled to take place on March 25th. The G2 Godolphin Mile will get proceedings underway at 21:05 JST/ 12:05 GMT. The Yoshito Yahagi-trained Bathrat Leon will be strongly fancied to retain his crown in the Meydan opener.