The 41st Asian Racing Conference (ARC) opened in Riyadh on February 10 with a strong call for collaboration as global racing confronts intensifying competition and shifting consumer habits.
In his keynote address, Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, Chair of the Asian Racing Federation and Chief Executive Officer of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said the sport must “change its mindset” to overcome fragmentation and modernize for younger audiences.
Engelbrecht-Bresges outlined several structural pressures, including the rise of illegal and unlicensed betting operators, increased competition from sports wagering, iGaming, and prediction markets, and the challenge of broadening racing’s appeal.
He pointed to the widening gap between declining foal crops and the rising number of elite races, noting that global foal production has fallen 35% since 2005 while Group 1 races have increased roughly 6%. This imbalance, he said, reduces the frequency of top-tier horses competing against each other and weakens racing’s ability to build “heroes” and global storylines.
He highlighted the World Pool as a successful example of international cooperation, projecting turnover of around HK$12bn in the 2025/26 season. The pool now spans 380 race events and covers more than half of the world’s top Group 1 contests, helping to combat illegal betting and expand the sport’s global footprint.
Engelbrecht-Bresges also emphasised the need to deepen engagement with younger audiences, warning that a wagering-only approach will fail in a market where gaming provides instant gratification. “We have to first really promote our sport,” he said.
Panel discussions throughout the day further explored marketing strategies, racing carnivals, and the expanding role of streaming media. Speakers from Ascot Racecourse, Dubai Racing Club, Churchill Downs and the Saudi Esports Federation stressed that compelling storytelling, racing tourism and modern broadcast platforms are essential to attracting new fans.
ARC sessions will continue this week with a focus on innovation, integrity, and long-term sustainability in the global racing ecosystem.
World Pool turnover is projected to reach HK$12bn (US$1.53bn) in 2025/26, according to HKJC
