Macau’s tourism authorities predict that the four-day Macau Grand Prix will attract over 400,000 visitor arrivals, with hotel occupancy rates expected to exceed 90 percent during the event.
This forecast is similar to the number of visitors seen during the second weekend of the previous edition. The 71st Macau Grand Prix will take place next Thursday (14th) through Sunday (17th), marking a shift from previous years, as the event has been shortened from two weeks to one. The previous edition was the 70th special anniversary edition, which spanned two weekends.
According to local media, Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), expects a significant influx of visitors during the Grand Prix. Various local associations and organizations will host Grand Prix-themed activities. Additionally, the six gaming operators have partnered with the Grand Prix Museum to launch a range of events, further promoting the racing culture in Macau.
Fernandes also mentioned that to amplify the event’s reach, the government plans to invite influencers from mainland China and other regions to cover the Grand Prix, helping to sustain excitement and attract even more tourists.
Meanwhile, Luis Gomes, Director of the Sports Bureau and Coordinator of the Grand Prix organizing committee revealed on Thursday that Grand Prix tickets are almost sold out. However, 200 to 300 tickets will be reserved each day for same-day sales.
The Macau Grand Prix is typically expected to impact Macau’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) figures, based on historical trends.
According to the latest projections from Bank of America, November’s GGR is forecast to reach MOP18 billion ($2.25 billion), reflecting a 13.5 percent month-on-month decline but a 12.1 percent year-on-year increase.