Macau Legislative Assembly (AL) member Leong Sun Iok has proposed a visionary plan to revitalize the Macau Jockey Club (MJC) by transforming it into a multifaceted sports and leisure destination. During a plenary meeting of the AL, Leong advocated for the development of Macau into a “sports city” by enhancing its sporting facilities. The focus on MJC as a central element in this transformation aims to embrace not only the cultural significance of horse racing but also diverse sports events such as cycling and football.
Building a “Sports City”:
Leong’s vision for Macau involves optimizing existing sports venues and facilities to create an integrated sports hub. The Macau Jockey Club, with its expansive racecourse and rich equestrian culture, stands out as a prime opportunity. Leong urged the government to utilize unused land and enhance the racecourse’s potential to accommodate a variety of sports events and activities. His proposal envisions MJC as an iconic sports and leisure destination, contributing to Macau’s identity as a dynamic “sports city.”
Challenges at Macau Jockey Club:
Despite the potential for transformation, recent challenges at MJC have raised concerns about its long-term sustainability. The proposal to reduce prize money for jockeys and trainers, attributed to financial losses, led to threats of a strike before being ultimately scrapped. MJC, operating under a new 24-year concession since 2018, faces obligations to upgrade facilities and settle outstanding fees. However, recent data from the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) indicates a significant decline in betting turnover and gaming revenue for MJC in the third quarter of 2023.
Data Insights:
Betting Turnover Decline: MJC’s betting turnover in 3Q23 witnessed a substantial 63% decline, amounting to MOP$51 million compared to 2019.
Gaming Revenue Drop: The gaming revenue for MJC during the same period plummeted by 64%, reaching just MOP$10 million.
Operational Challenges: The proposed reduction in prize money and financial difficulties highlight operational challenges that may impact MJC’s ability to fulfill commitments under its concession.
Vision for Macau Jockey Club’s Transformation:
Despite these challenges, Leong’s vision for the Macau Jockey Club aligns with the broader goal of enhancing Macau’s sports infrastructure. By leveraging MJC’s existing space and cultural significance, the proposed transformation aims to create a comprehensive sports and leisure destination that attracts locals and visitors alike.
The proposal to revitalize the Macau Jockey Club reflects a forward-thinking approach to Macau’s development as a “sports city.” As stakeholders consider the challenges faced by MJC and the broader implications for Macau’s identity, the potential benefits of transforming the racecourse into a diverse sports and leisure hub remain an intriguing prospect. Balancing financial sustainability with cultural preservation and recreational opportunities will be key to realizing this ambitious vision for Macau’s future.