Cygames Becomes Premium Partner of Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

Cygames Partners with Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

Cygames, Inc. has officially announced that it is now a Premium Partner of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, as reported by Anime Corner. This notable partnership marks the first instance of a Japanese company achieving this prestigious status in the race’s history.

As part of this collaboration, Cygames will feature its logo prominently on race programs and trackside signage at the event. The partnership adds to Cygames’ previously established relationship with France Galop as the title sponsor of the Cygames Grand Prix de Paris over the last two years, thereby reinforcing its commitment to French racing.

Details of the Partnership and Event

Guillaume de Saint-Seine, President of France Galop, expressed excitement about welcoming Cygames as a Premium Partner. He noted that this collaboration solidifies their relationship and showcases French racing to new audiences. Moreover, Cygames plans to place life-size statues of its characters, Goldship and Orfevre from the Umamusume: Pretty Derby franchise, at the Paris Longchamp Racecourse during the race. Both characters represent real-life racehorses, with Goldship finishing 14th in 2014 and Orfevre taking second place in 2012. This integration of gaming and horse racing reflects an innovative approach to audience engagement.

Significance of Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

The Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is a prestigious horse racing event inaugurated in 1920, held at the Longchamp Racecourse in Paris. As one of Europe’s premier thoroughbred races, it boasts the largest purse of any European race, valued at €5,000,000 (approximately $5,819,000). This year’s race is set for October 4 and is open to thoroughbreds aged three years and older, with new allowances for geldings as well.

Previously known simply as the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, it was renamed following a sponsorship deal with Qatar in 2008, further increasing its visibility and prestige.

Cygames’ Commitment to Racing and Entertainment

Koichi Watanabe, Cygames’ president, shared a statement reflecting the company’s enthusiasm for supporting this iconic horse race. He emphasized that Japanese horses have long sought to win the Arc, and that the stories surrounding these competitors resonate with people globally. Through this partnership, Cygames aims to deliver an exceptional entertainment experience to racing fans, aligning their mission with high-quality entertainment offerings.

Cygames is best known for its Umamusume: Pretty Derby franchise, which portrays anthropomorphized racehorses and has expanded beyond mobile gaming into an array of other media, including TV anime, OVAs, manga, and theatrical films. This partnership is expected to deepen the connection between the racing world and fans of Cygames’ diverse media outlets.

What this means

Cygames' partnership with the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe represents a significant milestone, not just for the company, but also for the crossover of gaming and traditional sports. As a Premium Partner, Cygames gains brand visibility and has the opportunity to introduce its beloved franchise to a broader audience, capitalizing on the racing event’s international viewership. Furthermore, this collaboration sets a precedent for future partnerships between similar industries, highlighting the growing synergy between entertainment and sports. As Cygames elevates its involvement in French racing, fans can anticipate an event that blends the excitement of the track with the vibrant narratives of gaming.

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