Japanese raider Prognosis, second in 2024 Cox Plate, retired to stud

The Japanese galloper, who was best of the rest in Via Sistina’s amazing Cox Plate victory last year, has been retired to stud after injuring a sesamoid ligament.

Damian Lane rides Prognosis at Moonee Valley ahead of last year’s Cox Plate. Picture: Vince Caligiuri / Getty Images

Star galloper Prognosis has run his last race and is set to be retired to stud.

The Japanese galloper, who beat all but Via Sistina in last year’s Cox Plate, injured a sesamoid ligament while preparing for a return to racing.

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“After finishing second in the Hong Kong G1 Queen Elizabeth II Cup in April, he had been ridden in preparation for his comeback, but swelling was observed in his right front leg and examination revealed inflammation in the sesamoid ligament,” a statement read.

“After considering the need for a long period of rest and the risk of recurrence, the decision was made to retire him. Discussions are underway with the aim of him becoming a breeding stallion in the future.”

JUST LOOK AT HOW VIA SISTINA ROMPED HOME IN THE COX PLATE 😳

THE JOCKEY HAS BEEN FINED $2000 FOR HIS CELEBRATION 🤯

🎬 @AtTheRacespic.twitter.com/5Gq3C5dwlU

— The Winners Enclosure (@TWEnclosure) October 26, 2024

While never saluting at Group 1 level, the son of legendary stallion Deep Impact went close in some big races with placings behind the likes of Romantic Warrior and Equinox.

His trainer Mitsumasa Nakauchida is certain Prognosis has a bright future in the next stage of his career.

“He came in second in his last race (Queen Elizabeth II Cup) and has always performed well no matter where he was,” Nakauchida said.

“I think he has done really well up until now. He will become a breeding stallion in the future and I believe he will pass on his strengths to his offspring.”