The Japan Racing Association (JRA) has announced the issuance of short-term riding licenses to four internationally renowned jockeys for the early 2025 racing season. Hollie Doyle, Rachel King, Aurelien Lemaitre, and Tom Marquand will bring their skills to Japan, riding under contracts with prominent trainers and owners during their respective license terms.

Hollie Doyle

One of the most recognizable names in global racing, Hollie Doyle will return to Japan for a brief stint from January 5 to January 14, 2025. This marks her fourth short-term JRA license since 2022. Representing Hiroyasu Tanaka (Miho Training Center) and contracted by Carrot Farm Co. Ltd., Doyle boasts an overall JRA record of 18 wins from 295 rides. While she has yet to secure a graded race win in Japan, her growing reputation and consistency make her a strong contender this season.

Rachel King

Australian-based jockey Rachel King will ride in Japan for a two-month term, from January 5 to March 4, 2025. Having previously held a JRA license in early 2024, King rides under the sponsorship of Noriyuki Hori (Miho Training Center) and is contracted to Danox Co. Ltd.. With 17 wins from 145 rides, including two graded victories, she has proven her ability to thrive in the competitive Japanese racing circuit.

Aurelien Lemaitre

French jockey Aurelien Lemaitre is set for his second short-term license with the JRA, valid from January 5 to February 24, 2025. Sponsored by Takashi Saito (Ritto Training Center) and representing Katsumi Yoshida, Lemaitre has 16 wins from 143 rides in Japan. Though yet to win a graded race in the country, his partnership with top-level connections could yield significant results this term.

Tom Marquand

Joining his wife, Hollie Doyle, in Japan for a brief license period, Tom Marquand will ride from January 5 to January 14, 2025. This is Marquand's fourth short-term JRA license since 2022. Sponsored by Keisuke Miyata (Miho Training Center) and contracted by Silk Racing Co. Ltd., Marquand holds an impressive 50 wins from 365 rides in Japan. Despite lacking a graded win, his consistent form has solidified his status as a sought-after international jockey in Japanese racing.

International Stars in Focus

The JRA's short-term license system continues to attract world-class riders, offering them the chance to compete in one of the most challenging and rewarding racing jurisdictions.