The February Stakes 2026 is the first JRA Grade 1 race of the Japanese racing season and the most prestigious dirt race in Japan.
Scheduled for February 22, 2026 at Tokyo Racecourse, the race is run over 1,600 metres (1 mile) on dirt and regularly attracts the country’s top dirt specialists.
This page provides an overview of the race, explains how international bookmakers list early markets, and highlights the leading contenders based on current futures odds.
Race Overview
- Race: February Stakes (Jpn1)
- Surface: Dirt
- Distance: 1,600m (1 mile)
- Venue: Tokyo Racecourse
- Age: 4yo & up
- Purse: One of the richest dirt races in Japan
Although Japan is globally known for turf racing, the February Stakes plays a key role in the international dirt calendar and can serve as a stepping stone toward major global events later in the season.
Top Japanese dirt runners from this race sometimes compete in global events such as the Saudi Cup and Dubai World Cup.
Why International Bettors Follow the February Stakes
While primarily a domestic championship race, interest has grown among international bettors for several reasons:
- Japan’s dirt division has improved significantly in recent years
- Some contenders target overseas campaigns later in the year
- Early bookmaker odds are sometimes available well before final declarations
For bettors looking beyond European and American racing, this race offers an alternative futures market in a major jurisdiction.
February Stakes 2026 Early Betting Odds (Futures)
Bookmakers may release ante-post / fixed odds markets in advance of final declarations.
Important betting terms:
- Ante-Post / All-In Betting – Stakes are not refunded if the horse does not run
- NRNB (Non Runner No Bet) – Stakes refunded if the horse does not run (usually closer to race day)
- NRMB (Non Runner Money Back) – Similar protection depending on bookmaker policy
Odds can move significantly as the race approaches and final fields are confirmed.
| Horse | No. (Gate) | bet365 (Feb 22) | max/min from Feb 12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st – Costa Nova | 12 (6) | 3.50 | 5.50/3.50 |
| 2nd – Wilson Tesoro | 14 (7) | 5.50 | 7.50/5.50 |
| 3rd – W Heart Bond | 9 (5) | 2.80 | 4.20/2.80 |
| 4th – Brian Sense | 3 (2) | 41.00 | 41.00/13.00 |
| 5th – Omega Guinness | 1 (1) | 26.00 | 34.00/26.00 |
| 6th – Peptide Nile | 15 (8) | 81.00 | 81.00/51.00 |
| 7th – Natural Rise | 13 (7) | 34.00 | 34.00/26.00 |
| 8th – Ramjet | 6 (3) | 8.50 | 9.00/8.50 |
| 9th – Sixpence | 5 (3) | 17.00 | 17.00/15.00 |
| 10th – Perriere | 4 (2) | 29.00 | 81.00/29.00 |
| 11th – Lord Couronne | 10 (5) | 13.00 | 13.00/8.00 |
| 12th – Sunrise Hawk | 11 (6) | 301.00 | 301.00/151.00 |
| 13th – Sakura Toujours | 8 (4) | 71.00 | 71.00/67.00 |
| 14th – Long Run | 7 (4) | 201.00 | 201.00/101.00 |
| 15th – Saimon Xanadu | 16 (8) | 61.00 | 61.00/21.00 |
| 16th – Happy Man | 2 (1) | 101.00 | 101.00/34.00 |
Market Structure
Early markets for the February Stakes typically focus on:
- Outright Winner
- Fixed odds futures
- Limited each-way terms (closer to race day)
Because this is a Japanese domestic race, market depth may vary by bookmaker and region.
Key Factors for Analysis
International bettors often evaluate:
- Proven dirt performance at Tokyo
- Previous Jpn1 form
- Pace profile (Tokyo’s long stretch can favour strong finishers)
- Seasonal debut fitness
The February Stakes frequently features established older horses returning from winter breaks, which can create volatility in early odds.
Final Notes
The February Stakes 2026 is Japan’s flagship dirt G1 and an important benchmark for the country’s dirt division.
Early odds are subject to change and may be listed under different regional categories depending on the bookmaker.
This page will be updated as additional betting markets and confirmed runners become available.
