The world of competitive “horse girls” heats up once again as Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray delivers its highly anticipated Episode 21, immersing fans in the thrilling climax of the Arima Kinen race. This pivotal episode, released on December 7, 2025, marks a significant moment in the spin-off anime, bringing together powerful rivals for a final, exhilarating showdown in the legendary Twinkle Series.
The Enduring Appeal of Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray
Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray is a captivating spin-off within the popular Uma Musume multimedia franchise. Unlike the main Uma Musume: Pretty Derby anime series, which focuses on characters like Special Week and Tokai Teio, Cinderella Gray delves into a distinct timeline and narrative, centering on the journey of the powerful horse girl Oguri Cap. The series chronicles Oguri Cap’s rise from local races at Kasamatsu Tracen Academy to becoming a legendary figure on the national stage. Known for its darker tone and compelling character development, the anime adaptation of Cinderella Gray has resonated with fans, building upon the manga’s success which boasts over 8 million copies in circulation. The anime’s second cour, which commenced in October 2025, has steadily built towards this high-stakes moment, culminating in Episode 21’s dramatic events.
Episode 21: The Arima Kinen Showdown
Episode 21, often considered part of the “second cour” or “Part 2” of the Cinderella Gray anime, is set entirely around the prestigious GI “Arima Kinen” race. This event is not just another competition; it represents the grand finale of the Twinkle Series for several key contenders, injecting an immense level of emotional and competitive weight into every stride.
Oguri Cap vs. Tamamo Cross: A Fated Rivalry
At the heart of Episode 21 lies the intense and deeply personal rivalry between protagonist Oguri Cap and Tamamo Cross. Tamamo Cross enters the Arima Kinen with her trainer, Komiyama, having declared this to be her final race in the Twinkle Series. This decision elevates the stakes, transforming the race into a final, definitive battle between two titans. Oguri Cap, determined to face her rival one last time, channels her emotions into burning determination, casting aside any sorrow to focus on victory. Their dynamic has been a cornerstone of the Cinderella Gray narrative, and this episode promises a climactic resolution to their long-standing competition.
A Field of Champions: Dicta Striker and Super Creek
While the rivalry between Oguri Cap and Tamamo Cross dominates the narrative, the Arima Kinen is far from a two-horse race. Episode 21 also features other top-tier contenders, notably Dicta Striker and Super Creek. Their presence ensures that the Arima Kinen is a formidable challenge, pushing Oguri Cap and Tamamo Cross to their absolute limits and guaranteeing a truly spectacular race for viewers. The collective talent on the track underscores the immense prestige and difficulty of winning such a high-stakes event.
The Road Ahead for Cinderella Gray
With Episode 21 unfolding the “grand finale” of the year’s biggest race, Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray continues to solidify its place as a compelling entry in the Uma Musume universe. The episode’s focus on legacy, rivalry, and the pursuit of dreams embodies the core themes of the franchise, delivering a powerful and emotional racing experience. Fans eagerly await the remaining episodes of this cour to see the ultimate outcome of Oguri Cap’s journey and the lasting impact of the Arima Kinen.
