Why the Hong Kong government holds key to potential upturn for British racing

The Hong Kong government holds the key to a potential upturn in revenue for British racing next summer through an increase in the number of major races simulcast for betting.

The number of overseas races allowed to be shown to local customers by the Hong Kong Jockey Club is strictly controlled by the government, but numbers have been gradually increased in recent years and HKJC chief executive Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges has revealed to the Racing Post that there are plans for further expansion.

Speaking after this month's international races, he said: "We have made an application to government for additional simulcast opportunities in the summer. The consultation has been completed and from our understanding there was significant support to permit it.