Nagoya, Japan – Danon Figo delivered a commanding performance in the Kakitsubata Kinen S. On Monday, February 23, 2026, at Nagoya Racecourse, securing his place in Japanese racing history as the first stakes winner sired by the American stallion Into Mischief. The 4-year-old colt surged to a four-length victory, solidifying his position as a rising star in the Japanese racing circuit and opening up potential international opportunities.
The victory comes after a promising third-place finish in the G3 Negishi Stakes earlier in February, signaling Danon Figo’s improving form. Trainer Yasuo Tomomichi indicated a deliberate strategy to build the colt’s earnings and experience before considering a step up to Group 1 competition. “I’m relieved we lived up to the expectations as the favorite,” Tomomichi told Japanese media. “I really wanted to go to the February Stakes, but rather than jumping straight into Group 1s, I thought we’d steadily earn prize money and build up step by step.”
Danon Figo, ridden by Yuga Kawada, settled into midpack early in the Listed race as Jasper Robusto established a significant lead. However, the colt demonstrated impressive acceleration on the final turn, rapidly closing the gap and ultimately overpowering the competition in the stretch. The win has earned Danon Figo an entry into the G2 Godolphin Mile, scheduled for March 28 at Meydan Racecourse in Dubai, presenting a potential international challenge.
The pedigree of Danon Figo is noteworthy, being the first foal of Ollie’s Candy, a successful American racemare who won the 2019 GI Clement L. Hirsch Stakes and placed in the GI Del Mar Oaks. Ollie’s Candy was purchased by K I Farm for $1.65 million at the Keeneland November sale in 2020, according to Thoroughbred Daily News, before being bred to Into Mischief and exported to Japan, where she foaled Danon Figo on February 25, 2022.
Into Mischief’s Expanding Global Reach
Into Mischief, a leading North American sire, has consistently produced high-quality runners, and Danon Figo represents his 191st lifetime stakes winner as of February 23, 2026. This victory marks a significant milestone for the stallion, extending his influence into the competitive Japanese racing landscape. The success of Danon Figo could encourage further investment in Into Mischief’s progeny in Japan and other international markets.
The Kakitsubata Kinen, a Listed race for 4-year-olds and up, is contested over 1500 meters on dirt at Nagoya Racecourse. According to Irish Racing, Danon Figo carried 9-0 (55kg) in the race, with Keita Tosaki initially listed as the jockey before being replaced by Yuga Kawada. Wayward Act, a U.S.-bred import owned by Godolphin, finished second, while Jasper Robusto settled for fourth.
Race Details and Future Prospects
Danon Figo’s performance in the Kakitsubata Kinen showcased his ability to overcome a challenging pace scenario and demonstrate a powerful finishing kick. Owned by Danox Co. LTD, the colt boasts a record of 6 wins, 1 second, and 2 thirds in 11 starts, with total earnings of $740,737. Keiba no Miryoku reports the final time for the race was 1:32.
The potential participation of Danon Figo in the Godolphin Mile at Meydan presents an exciting opportunity for Japanese racing on the international stage. The G2 race, worth $1 million, attracts top contenders from around the globe, and a strong showing by Danon Figo would further elevate the profile of Japanese-bred and trained horses. The decision to pursue this international campaign will likely depend on the colt’s condition and Tomomichi’s assessment of his readiness for such a challenge.
As Danon Figo continues his racing career, his success will undoubtedly contribute to the growing popularity of Into Mischief as a sire and further strengthen the ties between American and Japanese thoroughbred breeding programs. The colt’s journey from a Keeneland November purchase to a stakes winner in Japan is a testament to the global nature of the sport and the potential for international collaboration.
What comes next for Danon Figo remains to be seen, but his impressive victory in the Kakitsubata Kinen has undoubtedly positioned him as a horse to watch in the coming months. Share your thoughts on Danon Figo’s future prospects in the comments below.
