Sheikh Mohammed is set to expand his Japanese interests in the coming months after the nation's racing authorities announced its decision to open the doors of all major races to selected overseas owners.

The Sheikh has achieved the landmark of becoming the first owner residing outside the country to be registered with the Japan Racing Association (JRA), which runs the main turf programme in the country.

The Sheikh will now be able to have his colours carried in such races as the Tokyo Yushun (Derby) and other Classics that had been previously been excluded to foreigners.

As well as a thriving stud business, the Sheikh has had horses in training for many years in Japan but, until now, only was allowed to compete at lower-level NRA fixtures - with the proviso that they were registered under a resident owner.

Japanese-trained Admire Moon won the Japan Cup in 2007 in the colours of Darley Japan under an agreement allowing competition in designated international races.

In 2010, the Sheikh is to stand seven stallions under the Darley Japan banner including Admire Moon and fellow Japan Cup winner Alkaased, as well as Rule of Law, Xaar, Fantastic Light, Storming Home and Deep Sky.

Peter Amos, managing director of Darley Stud Management was delighted with the new venture.

"It's great news that our efforts along with others have paid off with the JRA and that we are now able to race on a level playing field in the big Japanese races," he said.

"I would think that it is likely we will build up our operation in Japan over the coming months."