Expansion of World Pool imminent with Hong Kong Jockey Club executive urging collaborators to boost marketing efforts and welfare fund contributions
Expansion of World Pool Brings Exciting Opportunities for Global Racing
The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) has announced ambitious plans to expand the number of World Pool fixtures, potentially reaching up to 70 days in the 2026-27 season. This expansion is set to almost double the number of dates covered by the global commingling platform over the next two years.
The 2021 Royal Ascot saw a ten per cent rise in betting turnover through World Pool, amounting to HK$1,574 million (£148m, €171m). This success has prompted the HKJC to aim to capture all the best hundred races in the world in the next two years.
Britain and Australia currently host more World Pool meetings than any other jurisdiction, and there is a possibility that many of the new World Pool fixtures will originate from this corner of the world. The expansion could bring more opportunities for British punters to bet on races abroad, particularly during summer festivals at Goodwood and York.
The potential for more World Pool fixtures could make the prospect of going deep into Australian form more viable for British punters. This could incentivize British punters to broaden their horizons and explore form from other parts of the world.
The HKJC's ambition is not just about increasing revenue. Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, HKJC chief executive, has focused on the need to invest in improved veterinary and welfare outcomes to safeguard public interest and social licence for the sport. He also emphasizes the importance of betting partners around the world contributing more to the promotion of World Pool and funding research in the field of horse welfare.
Engelbrecht-Bresges has stated that the expansion of World Pool will not lead to gambling harm. He believes that the Club's betting partners should play a significant role in promoting responsible gambling practices.
Keith Melrose, betting editor, highlights the potential benefits of World Pool's expansion for both fans and punters in Britain. He sees this as welcome news for British racing, which has concerns about its competitiveness.
World Pool is operated by the Hong Kong Jockey Club with permission from the Hong Kong government. The increase in World Pool fixtures could set new records for betting turnover, as demonstrated by the Prince of Wales's Stakes card, which set a record for a Wednesday at Royal Ascot at HK$330m (£31m/€36m).
While the specific races that will be added to increase the number of World Pool events to up to 70 in the next two years are not yet known, the excitement and potential opportunities for global racing are undeniable. The expansion of World Pool is set to revolutionize the betting landscape, making it easier for punters around the world to bet on races from different parts of the globe.
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