Cygames Expands Racing Portfolio with Surrey Stakes Sponsorship at Epsom Downs
Cygames, a Japanese-based company renowned for its video game development, has secured its first sponsorship agreement in the United Kingdom by sponsoring the Listed Surrey Stakes at the 2026 Betfred Derby Festival at Epsom Downs. This partnership marks a significant expansion of Cygames’ international racing portfolio, which already includes sponsorships of Group 1 races in France and the United States. Thoroughbred Daily News and Sport Industry confirmed the sponsorship.
Details of the Sponsorship
The Cygames Surrey Stakes will be held on Friday, June 5th, the opening day of the Betfred Derby Festival. The race will feature thoroughbred horses competing over a distance of 7 furlongs and 3 yards (1411 meters or approximately 4629 feet). Anime Corner provides details on the race distance.
Industry Reaction
Matthew Woolston, Assistant Racing and International Director at The Jockey Club, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “The Jockey Club are delighted to play our part in the long and valuable history of cooperation between Japan and the United Kingdom, for the development of horseracing but likewise of wider cultural and community ties.” He further added, “We’re so pleased that Cygames are able to partner with The Jockey Club at the 2026 Betfred Derby Festival at Epsom Downs and we hope this partnership will enable further cooperation between the industries in Japan and the United Kingdom.” Woolston also highlighted the increasing presence of Japanese runners in UK races and anticipates welcoming more in the future. Thoroughbred Daily News and Sport Industry reported on Woolston’s comments.
Cygames’ Growing Presence in Horse Racing
This sponsorship builds upon Cygames’ existing involvement in the horse racing world. The company previously sponsored the Grand Prix de Paris and has also supported races in the United States, including the Breeders’ Cup Sprint, Unbridled Sidney Stakes, and the American Oaks. Anime Corner details Cygames’ broader racing sponsorships.
Other Sports News
In addition to the Cygames sponsorship, other recent sports news includes the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) unveiling legacy plans for the Barclays Knight-Stokes Cup, a national T20 competition for state secondary schools, and Kukri Sports appointing four new ambassadors to represent England Athletics across youth, talent pathway, and Masters programmes. Sport Industry reported on these developments.