Hong Kong darling Joao Moreira announces shock move to Japan

Joao Moreira, who has become a living legend of the riding ranks in Hong Kong since his arrival in 2013, has dropped a bombshell by announcing he will leave the country to try his luck in Japan.

Considered one of the world's finest Flat riders, Moreira has enjoyed a wonderful time in Hong Kong since moving from Singapore, being crowned champion for the last three campaigns with record-breaking totals.

However, his position as the all-conquering title holder has come under threat from a revitalised Zac Purton this term and on Thursday news broke the Brazilian will aim to join Christophe Lemaire and Mirco Demuro as full-time foreign riders in Japan.

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Nicknamed 'Magic Man' by his faithful followers, Moreira - a four-time champion in Singapore - played down the idea Purton's pressure was a factor in his decision.

"This was such a difficult decision and I want to thank all of the people in Hong Kong racing for what has been an amazing five seasons, but it is time to move on," said Moreira, who has not renewed his licence with the Hong Kong Jockey Club for the 2018-19 season.

"When I came here I honestly thought I would be here for no more than two years, and I never expected to achieve what I have. I've experienced everything you can dream of as a jockey here and I’ve made some wonderful friends."

Moreira enjoyed many fine moments on Hong Kong legend Able FriendCredit: Vince Caligiuri

Moreira, who came close to winning the King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot on Medicean Man in 2015, is highly regarded in Japan, having recorded top-level wins on Vivlos, Neorealism and Satono Crown.

He will have to pass the Japan Racing Association's notoriously stiff written and oral examinations to be licensed.

"From what I understand, it's an extremely difficult process and I will have to be at my best," added the superstar jockey, who was quoted by the South China Morning Post and also revealed he has had a Japanese tutor since 2016.

Joao Moreira stats and big-race wins

"I will give it as much time as I can to get myself prepared for it.

"If I fail, I will try again next year, and I would probably go back to Brazil and ride or rest for 2019."

Moreira, whose reputation grew due to his association with legendary Hong Kong gelding Able Friend, recently suggested the title in Hong Kong was Purton's for the taking, but many dismissed that view as mind games.

"Maybe I have made some wrong decisions on which horses to ride," he said. "But look, Zac is an amazing jockey and I think he is the best rider here. I'll be giving it everything I've got. I want to win the championship, but if I don't, it won’t be because of this [the move to Japan] distracting me."

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