Japanese stars Prognosis and Warp Speed set for Australian assault

Two of Japan’s top thoroughbreds, Prognosis and Warp Speed, are set to arrive in Australia on Monday to target the Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup, respectively.

Prognosis, trained by Mitsumasa Nakauchida, is eyeing the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley.

The high-class contender boasts strong form, particularly through his close battles with last year’s Cox Plate winner Romantic Warrior.

Despite tough runs, including a second-place finish in the Group 1 QEII Cup in Hong Kong, Prognosis has shown resilience and class.

With seven wins from 15 starts, including three Group 2 victories in Japan, the horse is seen as a top Cox Plate contender, especially with the booking of jockey Damian Lane.

Meanwhile, Warp Speed, trained by Noboru Takagi, is nominated for the Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup.

Known for his stamina, Warp Speed has excelled in long-distance races, including a solid fifth in the 3200m Group 1 Tenno Sho.