Suraj Narredu Creates History in Sapporo, Becoming the First Indian Jockey to Claim a JRA Victory
A landmark Japanese triumph puts Indian horse racing in the international spotlight
India has achieved a historic milestone in international horse racing, with celebrated jockey Suraj Narredu becoming the first Indian jockey to win a race under the Japan Racing Association (JRA).
Narredu achieved the feat at Sapporo Racecourse, guiding Fier Chanter to victory over 2,600 metres. The historic win came during his participation in the prestigious 2026 World All-Star Jockeys (WASJ) competition, where leading riders from around the world compete in Japan.
The achievement is particularly remarkable because it came on only Narredu’s second mount in Japan. Riding Fier Chanter, he delivered a composed and decisive performance to secure the victory and create a new milestone for Indian jockeys.
Narredu was among the international jockeys invited to compete in the WASJ, alongside riders representing countries including Australia, South Africa, Canada and France. His selection itself reflected the growing international recognition of his achievements in Indian racing.
The Bengaluru-based jockey has enjoyed a distinguished career in India and reached another major milestone earlier this year by becoming the first Indian jockey to cross 2,500 career victories. He has also accumulated numerous graded-race and classic victories during his career.
His international experience has expanded in recent years. In 2025, Narredu participated in the prestigious Shergar Cup at Ascot in Britain and was part of the successful Team Asia. His performances on the international circuit have helped bring greater attention to Indian jockeying.
The Sapporo victory has significance beyond the racetrack. Japan has one of the world’s most sophisticated and respected horse-racing systems, and winning under the JRA represents a notable achievement for an Indian rider competing in an established international racing environment.
For India, Narredu’s success also demonstrates the expanding reach of the country’s sporting talent. While cricket remains India’s most visible global sporting identity, achievements in chess, equestrian sports, athletics and horse racing are increasingly creating new avenues for international recognition.
Sport can also serve as an informal bridge between nations. Narredu’s participation in Japan brings together Indian and Japanese sporting communities through competition, professional exchange and shared passion.
His historic victory at Sapporo therefore represents more than a personal achievement. It marks a new chapter for Indian jockeying on the international stage and adds another dimension to India’s growing sporting presence abroad.
From Bengaluru to Sapporo, Suraj Narredu has shown that Indian sporting talent can cross borders—and win on the world’s most competitive stages.
