Macau’s casino operators are set to contribute MOP100 million ($12.5 million) in sponsorship for the upcoming Macau Grand Prix, indicating a decrease in financial support from some major players.
Last year, during the 70th edition of this iconic motor racing event, the total sponsorship reached MOP120 million ($15 million), exceeding this year’s commitments.
While last year’s event spanned two weekends and garnered significant attention, this edition will take place over four days.
According to local media, the Macau Sports Bureau has confirmed that both Melco Resorts & Entertainment and Wynn Macau will each contribute MOP10 million ($1.3 million), with other sponsors providing MOP20 million ($2.5 million) each.
Scheduled for November 14th to 17th, the 71st Macau Grand Prix will feature seven races on a 6.2-kilometre circuit. This year’s event is expected to attract over 180 racers from 35 countries, surpassing the participation figures of 2019.
During a press conference held on Tuesday, LuÃs Gomes, president of the Sports Bureau, announced that the overall budget for the 2024 Grand Prix is projected at MOP240 million ($30 million), excluding sponsorship from gaming companies. The previous year’s event saw ticket sales generate MOP17 million ($2.1 million) in revenue.
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) revealed that the formula regional category will replace the longstanding Formula 3 category, a change that has drawn attention. Traditionally, Macau’s Formula 3 race has served as a vital platform for emerging racers from various national series.
Francois Sicard, FIA’s director for single-seater strategy and operations, noted that this adjustment reflects the evolving landscape of junior single-seater racing.
The newly certified Formula Regional Championships are designed to prepare young drivers for international competition, while FIA Formula Three has transitioned into an internationally recognized series that supports Formula One events with a standardized grid of cars.
