The Japan Racing Association (JRA) announced the results of the first stage of the 2025 jockey license examination on the 3rd, with no successful applicants for new jockey licenses. Mickaelle Michel (29), attempting the exam for the third time, was once again unsuccessful.

In recent years, Michel had relocated to the U.S. and Australia to improve her English skills, a requirement for the JRA exam. She had also been working on her Japanese with a local teacher. Following the exam, she commented, "I feel I did better than last year. I'm hoping for a good result." Unfortunately, she was unable to pass this year as well.

Meanwhile, Michel has been granted a short-term jockey license by the National Association of Racing, allowing her to ride from October 7th to December 20th this year in South-Kanto regional racing.