Japan Cup champion Do Deuce, the last horse to defeat the reigning star Equinox, has officially retired to stud. The five-year-old son of Heart’s Cry has concluded his illustrious racing career and will now stand at Shadai Stallion Station, where he joins his former rival, Equinox, whom he famously beat in the 2022 Tokyo Yushun.

Do Deuce was originally set to be the odds-on favourite with Australian betting sites in Sunday’s Group 1 Arima Kinen (2500m), a race he was voted into by nearly 500,000 fans out of 5 million votes cast. However, an unexpected off-foreleg injury discovered during a routine canter on Friday put an end to those plans, which also included a ceremonial farewell at Nakayama racecourse.

Trainer Yasuo Tomomichi noticed a subtle irregularity in the horse’s gait, prompting owner Masaaki Matsushima to make the difficult decision to retire the star entire immediately. Matsushima, who dreams of one day winning the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, expressed hope that Do Deuce’s future progeny might fulfill that ambition.

“We’ve received incredible support and joy from fans throughout Do Deuce’s career, and I deeply regret this outcome,” Matsushima shared with the media. “I sincerely apologize to all his supporters. Do Deuce gave everything he had, and starting next year, he’ll embark on a new chapter. I hold onto the dream of seeing one of his progeny, ridden by Yutaka Take, proudly raising the Japanese flag at Longchamp.”

Jockey Yutaka Take, a 55-year-old legend in Japanese racing, was a constant presence in Do Deuce’s career, partnering with him in 14 of his 16 starts, including all five Group 1 victories. Together, they amassed over AUD $18 million in prize money, cementing Do Deuce’s legacy as one of Japan’s finest racehorses.

*Existing customers only. 2nd Racing bet. Excl SA & WA. T’s & C’s apply. Gamble responsibly.