The 2021 Japanese Derby winner Shahryar returns for his second consecutive appearance in the G1 Arima Kinen. Last year, his preparation was disrupted when he had to withdraw from the Hong Kong Vase and make a last-minute return to Japan for the Grand Prix. Despite the challenges, he finished a commendable fifth, just 0.3 seconds behind the winner. Trainer Hideaki Fujiwara reflected, "It was tough to manage his condition. He couldn't perform at his best. That fifth-place finish wasn't reflective of his true ability." This year, however, the preparation has been seamless. "We've targeted this race from the start, and everything has gone according to plan," Fujiwara emphasized.

Shahryar cemented his status as a top-class performer when he won the Japanese Derby and made history in March 2022 by claiming the Dubai Sheema Classic, becoming the first Derby winner to secure an international G1 title. His career highlights include competing against elite international fields, such as back-to-back third-place finishes in the Breeders' Cup Turf. While victory has eluded him since his triumph in Dubai, Shahryar has consistently demonstrated his ability to compete on the world stage. On December 15, Shahryar showcased his fitness with an intense workout on the Ritto Training Center slope course, covering 4F in 52.4 seconds, 3F in 38.3 seconds, and a final furlong in 12.0 seconds. The strong uphill gallop confirmed his readiness. Trainer Fujiwara expressed confidence in his veteran campaigner, saying, "He knows what he needs to do. It's just a matter of flipping the switch. If we can maintain his condition, he'll be a fascinating contender."

With a resume that includes battles against the world's best, Shahryar has the experience and class to deliver a powerful performance. Now, it's time for the Derby champion to show his resilience and aim for a grand return to the winner's circle.