The UK Tote Group and the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) have recently unveiled a new five-year deal, solidifying their partnership until at least the end of 2028. This agreement marks a significant milestone for both organizations and paves the way for further collaboration and integration. Under the terms of the agreement, the UK Tote will serve as the exclusive pool partner for World Pool in the UK and Ireland. The partnership will encompass various projects, such as the introduction of new bet varieties and improved client service. Notably, 2023 will witness 25 World Pool days, with a staggering £31 million ($39.7 million) in prize money, including 18 race days in Great Britain and Ireland from May to October.
Expansion of World Pool and Impressive Turnover:
The partnership between the UK Tote and HKJC has played a pivotal role in the growth of the World Pool over the past four years. In 2022, the World Pool reported a remarkable 44% year-on-year rise, with a global turnover of £650 million. Betting on British and Irish race days accounted for an impressive £521 million. These figures demonstrate the increasing popularity and financial significance of the World Pool, making it a crucial revenue stream for the sport of horseracing.
Enhanced Betting Opportunities:
Through the extended partnership, customers of the UK Tote in the UK and Ireland will continue to have access to betting on races at Hong Kong’s two prominent racecourses: Happy Valley and Sha Tin. This includes renowned events like FWD Champions Day in April and the Longines Hong Kong International races in December. By offering betting opportunities into multi-million-pound pools, the UK Tote ensures that racing enthusiasts have access to a wide range of exciting wagering options.
Strengthened Collaboration and Future Prospects:
The CEO of HKJC, Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, expressed the importance of the UK Tote’s contribution to the growth of the World Pool and emphasized the value of their partnership. The collaboration between the two organizations has laid a solid foundation for the development of the pool betting experience worldwide. With a shared vision of enhancing the sport and enriching the betting experience, the UK Tote’s Chairman, John Williamson, highlighted the significance of the new agreement. It will accelerate their plans to further expand the World Pool, providing additional revenue streams to support the sport of horseracing.
The extended five-year partnership between the UK Tote Group and the Hong Kong Jockey Club marks an exciting chapter for both organizations. The collaboration will strengthen the World Pool’s position in the UK and Ireland, offering enhanced betting opportunities and introducing new bet varieties. The impressive turnover and continued growth of the World Pool demonstrate its increasing popularity among racing fans worldwide. With a shared commitment to innovation and the advancement of the sport, the UK Tote and HKJC are poised to shape the future of pool betting, ensuring an immersive and rewarding experience for racing enthusiasts globally.