Macau should leverage international sports and esports events to accelerate diversification beyond traditional casino gaming and attract younger travelers, according to Mario Ho Yau Kwan, who has promoted a “Sports Plus” model integrating live entertainment, technology, lifestyle, and tourism.
Ho, chairman and co-chief executive officer of NIP Group and son of late Macau gaming magnate Stanley Ho Hung Sun, made the remarks during a keynote speech on Thursday, the final day of the Asian IR Summit.
The non-gaming conference program was held alongside Global Gaming Expo Asia (G2E Asia) at The Venetian Macao from Tuesday through Thursday.
“Sports break down barriers that politics, business and traditional media cannot,” Ho said. “Among all modern sports, esports is leading a new wave of global youth culture.”
He described esports as a mainstream cultural force driven by digital platforms, livestreaming and large-scale arena events that connect communities across borders both online and offline.
Ho said destinations seeking to attract younger consumers should adopt a “Sports Plus” strategy that combines sports with tourism, technology and lifestyle experiences.
“[It] is quietly redefining how cities and destinations compete for the next generation,” he said.
According to Ho, Macau is well positioned to pursue the model due to its integrated resort infrastructure, cross-border transport links, support from Beijing and proximity to a population of more than two billion people within a four-hour flight radius.
“What Macau needs now is the determination to diversify, broaden its industrial base and reduce reliance on traditional gaming as the sole growth driver,” he said.
He added that international sporting events, professional esports venues and immersive entertainment experiences could help shape the next phase of Macau’s development.
Ho also pointed to Las Vegas as an example of a gaming destination that successfully repositioned itself through long-term investment in sports and entertainment.
“The next generation of integrated resorts will not be defined solely by hotel rooms, restaurants and gaming floors,” Ho said. “It will become something far more comprehensive — a true industrial platform.”
He outlined a vision for future integrated resorts incorporating sports arenas, production studios, exhibition and cultural facilities, and innovation hubs within a connected entertainment ecosystem focused on immersive experiences.













