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Jun 18, 20261
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Keii Kodama Withdraws from Pearl Cup Final Due to Ankle Sprain
Cyclist Keii Kodama has withdrawn from the Pearl Cup final at Kishiwada Velodrome due to a right ankle sprain. Kodama had advanced through the tournament after finishing first on opening day and third in the semi-final, but the injury forced her to miss the final round.
Quick Facts
Who
Keii Kodama
What
Withdrew from Pearl Cup final due to injury
When
June 18, 2026
Where
Kishiwada Velodrome
- Withdrew from Pearl Cup final due to injury
- Finished first on opening day
- Placed third in semi-final
- Advanced to final round before withdrawal
- Keii Kodama
Keii Kodama has withdrawn from the final of the fourth Pearl Cup (G1) held at Kishiwada Velodrome on June 18, 2026, due to a right ankle sprain sustained before the final day of competition. Kodama had made a strong start to the tournament, finishing first on the opening day and advancing to the final after placing third in the semi-final round. The withdrawal marks a significant setback for the competitor, who was aiming for her second title in the Pearl Cup series—her first victory having come three years earlier at the inaugural event. Despite her competitive performance throughout the earlier stages, the injury prevented her from competing for the championship on the final day.
Topics
Why This Matters
This incident is significant for keirin fans and bettors, as Kodama was a top contender and her withdrawal reshapes the final. It also highlights the physical toll of high-stakes racing and could affect her preparation for upcoming G1 events like the 77th Takamatsunomiya Kinen Cup.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2023
WireKodama won the inaugural Pearl Cup (first title)
Jun 18, 2026
WireKodama finishes first on opening day of fourth Pearl Cup
Jun 18, 2026
WireKodama places third in semi-final, advances to final
Jun 18, 2026
WireKodama withdraws from final due to right ankle sprain