The 2025 G1 All-Japan Keirin Championship, known as the 40th Yomiuri Shimbun Company Cup, commenced on February 21, 2025, and culminated with thrilling finals on February 24 at the Toyohashi Keirin Stadium, Aichi Prefecture. This event not only showcased some of the best talents in keirin racing but also led to significant historical milestones within the sport.
Race results confirmed the outstanding accomplishment of Yuta Wakiwaki, who claimed first place. His victory marked the achievement of the elusive Grand Prix Slam, as he became the first athlete to accomplish this feat across all six G1 events since the system’s inception.
The final race featured various contenders, including Kohei Terasaki and Tomohiro Fukaya, among others. The competitors exhibited immense strategy, forming distinct lines as they navigated through challenging weather conditions, which included strong winds. The race commenced with significant early moves as the athletes battled for position, indicative of the intensity and competitiveness characteristic of G1 events.
After taking the lead early, the competition tightened as Wakiwaki and Terasaki pushed their limits. According to sources, Wakiwaki expressed gratitude for his teammates from the Kinki region who supported him throughout the event. "This victory is thanks to the support of my companions from the Kinki region," stated Wakiwaki, highlighting the importance of team dynamics within the sport.
Wakiwaki, who recently returned from injuries related to chronic lumbar issues and previous setbacks, overcame initial confidence doubts before the competition. He revealed, “I was not confident heading to this event, but I believe I could achieve victory thanks to the assistance from my teammates.” Coming off from injuries and after struggling through earlier rounds, the keirin star proved his mettle by clinching the top spot.
The final standings showcased Wakiwaki posting the fastest finish time, completing the race with stunning speed and strategy, taking the victory by 1.5 lengths over Terasaki, with Fukaya securing third place. Post-race comments from Terasaki acknowledged the competition, saying, “I felt the difference in speed against Wakiwaki,” demonstrating the high-caliber nature of the event.
Outside the race itself, the financial success of this year’s championship was notable. The overall sales for the four-day event culminated at approximately 10.5 billion yen, surpassing the anticipated target of 10.3 billion yen. This financial triumph highlights the popularity and competitiveness of keirin racing within Japan.
Looking toward the future, Wakiwaki expressed his ambition to continue supporting his team and the keirin sport overall. “I will continue to support Kinki from now on,” he affirmed, reflecting not only on personal achievements but also on the legacy of collaboration within the sport. With this victory, Wakiwaki not only made history but also set the stage for future aspirations and growth within keirin racing.
The 2025 G1 All-Japan Keirin Championship will be remembered not only for its champion but also for the tremendous spirit of camaraderie and competition displayed by its athletes. With records being broken and new milestones reached, the future of keirin racing looks brighter than ever.