Breeders' Cup Forges Groundbreaking Partnership with Gaming Giant Cygames

In a move that promises to revolutionize the world of horse racing, Breeders' Cup Limited has announced a landmark partnership with Cygames, Inc., a leading Japanese video game publisher and developer. This strategic alliance will see Cygames become the name-in-title partner of the prestigious GI Cygames Breeders' Cup Sprint, set to take place on November 2nd, 2024.

Unlocking a New Era of Equine Entertainment

Bridging the Gap Between Racing and Gaming

The partnership between Breeders' Cup and Cygames represents a groundbreaking convergence of the worlds of horse racing and video gaming. Cygames, known for its acclaimed simulation game "Umamusume: Pretty Derby," which debuted in Japan in 2021, will now bring its expertise and global reach to the Breeders' Cup World Championships. This collaboration will not only elevate the profile of the GI Cygames Breeders' Cup Sprint but also introduce a new generation of fans to the thrilling sport of thoroughbred racing.

Elevating the Breeders' Cup Brand

Heather Higgins, the Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for the Breeders' Cup, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "Cygames is a leading brand in the gaming world and, like the Breeders' Cup World Championships, is committed to delivering high-quality entertainment to a global audience." This strategic alliance will undoubtedly raise the visibility and prestige of the Breeders' Cup, positioning it as a premier destination for sports and entertainment enthusiasts worldwide.

Tapping into the Power of Simulation Gaming

The upcoming launch of the English version of "Umamusume: Pretty Derby" will further strengthen the connection between Cygames and the Breeders' Cup. This simulation game, which has captivated audiences in Japan, offers a unique opportunity to engage a new demographic of fans and introduce them to the excitement and nuances of thoroughbred racing. By leveraging the popularity of this game, the Breeders' Cup can tap into a vast and untapped market, expanding its reach and appeal beyond traditional horse racing enthusiasts.

Fostering a Synergistic Ecosystem

The partnership between Breeders' Cup and Cygames extends beyond the GI Cygames Breeders' Cup Sprint. It represents a strategic move to create a synergistic ecosystem that combines the thrill of live horse racing with the immersive world of video gaming. This collaboration has the potential to inspire cross-pollination between the two industries, leading to innovative marketing campaigns, content collaborations, and even the development of new gaming experiences that seamlessly integrate the essence of thoroughbred racing.

Unlocking Global Opportunities

The Breeders' Cup's partnership with Cygames also opens up a world of global opportunities. Cygames' strong presence in the Japanese market and its growing influence in the international gaming community provide the Breeders' Cup with a powerful platform to expand its reach and engage with new audiences across the globe. This collaboration has the potential to introduce the Breeders' Cup brand to a diverse array of sports and entertainment enthusiasts, further solidifying its position as a premier event in the world of horse racing.

Elevating the Sport of Kings

Ultimately, the partnership between Breeders' Cup and Cygames represents a transformative moment in the history of thoroughbred racing. By harnessing the power of video gaming and tapping into the passion of a new generation of fans, the Breeders' Cup can elevate the sport of kings to unprecedented heights, captivating audiences worldwide and ensuring the continued growth and relevance of this timeless equestrian tradition.