Macau’s Secretary for Administration and Justice declared on Monday that horse racing in Macau has officially come to an end, emphasizing that the vacated space of the Macau Jockey Club (MJC) would not be repurposed for a casino or any other gaming activities. This was disclosed during a press conference providing details about the closure of the Macau Jockey Club, scheduled for 1 April, 2024, with its official race season concluding on 31 March, 2024.

Last racing season in Macau

Contrary to previous government statements, it was revealed that the Macau Jockey Club itself had submitted a request to terminate its racing concession around mid-2023. This surprising move contradicted the government’s 2018 decision to renew the racing license for the Macau Jockey Club for an extended period of 24 years and six months. The renewal was based on the club’s role in diversifying Macau’s economy and required an investment of MOP1.5 billion.

The Secretary for Administration and Justice clarified that the renewal contract did not include indemnity clauses for abrupt termination by either party, despite potential impacts on the public good. Although the government assured the completion of promised renovation works, insiders argue that these efforts have been superficial, leaving owners to compensate for unfulfilled management commitments.

Government contradictions

Reports circulating last year regarding the possible closure of the MJC, previously dismissed by the government and the company, caught involved parties off-guard when the closure was officially announced. Speculation suggested the property might continue as a racing venue under new ownership, but the Secretary for Administration and Justice dispelled these rumours, affirming the cessation of racing activities.

Post-closure dilemma: land usage and horse transfers

Upon the transfer of horses by 31 March, 2024, the land occupied by the Macau Jockey Club will revert to the government, prompting a study on potential uses. The official assurance that there won’t be another public tender for a horse racing concession raises questions about the future of the space. The government suggested that around 289 horses could be sent to China, leaving room for owners to transfer them elsewhere, possibly to countries like Australia. The government attributes the closure to a significant decline in attendance and betting revenue, signalling a major shift in the economic landscape that once supported horse racing in Macau.

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