CONFERENCE Overview

This scene-setting session will examine the evolving global racing and sports landscape, featuring a keynote address by the ARF Chair and HKJC CEO, Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, an overview of the Saudi racing landscape from JCSA Chairman, HRH Prince Bandar bin Khaled Al Faisal, and a panel discussion among leaders in racing and other sports, which will lay the foundations for a thought-provoking Conference.

Experts from racing and sports, media, marketing and broadcasting will examine how today’s audiences are engaging with racing and sports, the changing landscape of global broadcasting and the critical roles of streaming services and media rights in growing viewership.

Under Saudi Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has identified sports as a key pillar in its broader strategy to enhance tourism, improve public health and attract international investment. The sports sector is expected to drive economic diversification, create job opportunities and foster a more active society. This session will feature a panel discussion exploring how equestrianism and sports are at the heart of the Kingdom’s generational giga-projects.

Organisers of major racing carnivals around the world will convene in a panel discussion to explore how impactful event activation can enhance fan engagement and broaden audience appeal, with a focus on innovative strategies and key learnings for enhancing the fan experience at these iconic racing occasions.

This session will examine how the latest technologies such as AI, big data and virtual reality are propelling innovations and revolutionising the racing and sports landscapes, from how business is conducted to customer engagement to data analytics.

Industry experts will deliver presentations and engage in a panel discussion to discuss the latest trends, cutting-edge developments and significant breakthroughs that are reshaping consumer behaviours in the racing, sports and gaming industries.

Representatives of racing authorities in the Middle East will explore the Gulf Horseracing Council’s initiatives and influence on horse racing within and beyond the Gulf region, focusing on the latest developments and outlook for racing over the next decade.

Experts in integrity will address the latest developments, opportunities and challenges in the field, beginning with an overview on key international integrity matters, followed by presentations on the importance of new technological tools to identify integrity threats and the critical role of safeguarding racing’s participants.

Focusing on equine welfare, this session will spotlight racehorse aftercare initiatives globally, as well as how exciting developments in science and technology are being leveraged to minimise the risk of injury in the sport.

Leaders and industry practitioners from racing and breeding will convene in a panel discussion to examine strategies and initiatives to support the sustainability of the industry’s workforce and the challenges presented by declining foal crops worldwide.