From TechRadar · · 1m 10s
Horse girls are officially coming to MotoGP
The viral mobile game Umamusume: Pretty Derby is partnering with the MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix in an unprecedented crossover.
In brief
The viral mobile game Umamusume: Pretty Derby is partnering with the MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix in an unprecedented crossover. Video games are now official partners at major motorsport events, blending digital entertainment with real-world racing. Originally reported by TechRadar.
Horse girls hit the racetrack
Umamusume: Pretty Derby, a viral mobile game about anthropomorphized racing horses, is partnering with MotoGP's Japanese Grand Prix in October 2026.
Giant displays and character spots
The Motegi circuit will feature a 155-meter display with eight game characters, plus special photo spots and art boards throughout the venue.
Voice actor waves the checkered flag
Tomoyo Takayanagi, who voices the character Oguri Cap in the franchise, will wave the checkered flag at Moto2 and Moto3 races.
First video game MotoGP partner
This marks the first time a video game has become an official MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix event partner.
Game revived horse racing interest
Umamusume: Pretty Derby has spawned anime and manga adaptations and is credited with reviving interest in real horse racing.
Not the first racing crossover
Earlier this year, a Pacific Racing Team BMW M4 GT3 featured special Umamusume livery in Japan's Super GT racing championship.
The takeaway
Video games are now official partners at major motorsport events, blending digital entertainment with real-world racing.
