Record commingling, surging attendance, and landmark wins mark a successful year for HKJC
Turnover Rebounds with International Momentum
The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) has posted a strong financial recovery in the 2024/25 racing season, reporting a 3% increase in turnover to HK$138.85 billion (US$17.6 billion). This growth reverses last year’s 4.5% decline and reflects renewed confidence in both local and international racing markets.
One of the primary drivers of this rebound is the record-breaking commingling turnover, which rose 10.1% year-on-year to HK$31.76 billion. The commingling strategy—allowing international bettors to wager on Hong Kong races—was further amplified through HKJC’s World Pool platform, especially on global race days like Chinese New Year Raceday, which set new turnover benchmarks.
Attendance Surges as Tourism Rebounds
Over 1.7 million racegoers attended live race meetings throughout the season, buoyed by a dramatic 110% increase in tourists from Mainland China. Major events such as the BMW Hong Kong Derby and FWD Champions Day each attracted around 9,000 tourists, highlighting Hong Kong racing’s appeal as a signature sports tourism attraction.
HKJC CEO Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges emphasized that the policy initiatives led by HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee helped attract a broader international audience, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a gateway for East-West sporting exchange.
On the Track: Historic Wins for Hong Kong Horses
This season saw Hong Kong-trained horses achieve 11 Group 1 victories, solidifying the city’s position on the global racing map.
Romantic Warrior made history as the first Hong Kong horse to win G1 races in four countries, including major titles in Australia and Japan.
Voyage Bubble completed the Hong Kong Triple Crown, a rare feat last accomplished over three decades ago.
Such achievements not only boost local prestige but also prove Hong Kong’s training and breeding programmes are globally competitive.
Strategic Vision: Expansion into Greater Bay Area
Looking forward, the HKJC will increase total Group 1 prize money to HK$208 million in the 2025/26 season, reinforcing its commitment to elite racing. A major step forward will also take place in October 2026, when HKJC will begin hosting races at the Conghua Racecourse in Mainland China—an expansion poised to deepen the Club’s presence in the Greater Bay Area.
This dual-track strategy—strengthening both the international brand and regional footprint—demonstrates HKJC’s long-term vision to maintain Hong Kong’s leadership in global thoroughbred racing.
Conclusion: Hong Kong Racing’s Role in a Post-Pandemic Renaissance
The 2024/25 season has clearly marked a turning point for Hong Kong racing. Through innovative global betting platforms, record international engagement, and remarkable on-track performances, the HKJC has not only rebounded but redefined its relevance in a competitive global racing landscape.
As Engelbrecht-Bresges summarized:
“These achievements strengthen the position of Hong Kong racing as a world-class sport and entertainment experience… and underline Hong Kong’s vital role as a centre for East-West exchange.”
