In a notable shift from tradition, Hong Kong’s horse racing season has embraced a fresh identity—fusing sport, entertainment, and tourism to broad appeal. The 2024–25 season concluded with a packed 20,000-strong crowd at Happy Valley, and wagering turnover rose 3% to nearly HK$139 billion, reversing previous declines
What stands out is the transformation of race days into full-blown entertainment events. Attendees were welcomed with live music, DJs, fireworks, and elevated food and beverage offerings—all designed to cultivate a “cool” atmosphere that resonates with younger audiences and tourists. Over the season, approximately 1.7 million racegoers attended, including nearly 200,000 mainland Chinese visitors—more than double the previous season
The Hong Kong Jockey Club, which holds exclusive gambling rights in the region and funds major charitable causes, is now positioning itself as a globally recognized sports-entertainment brand. Notably, it has partnered with American Idol creator Simon Fuller, with plans to feature one of his bands at future race events .
Despite this growth, the report cautions that responsible gambling initiatives must be intensified to mitigate addiction risks. The club’s broader strategy includes expanding into basketball betting, launching its Conghua racecourse in Guangzhou, and attracting new revenue streams while maintaining regulatory scrutiny .
As Hong Kong’s iconic sport evolves under “one country, two systems,” its strategic rebranding is delivering both economic gains and cultural resonance—solidifying racing as a multifaceted entertainment powerhouse.
