8th June 2023 – HBA Media’s commitment to generating increased commercial returns for the sport of horse racing has been rewarded by the completion of three new deals, strengthening the agency’s comprehensive international racing portfolio.
HBA has partnered with the Hong Kong Jockey Club to distribute seven international Group 1 contests staged over two principal race days highlighted by the Longines Hong Kong International Races in mid-December which features the Hong Kong Sprint, Mile, Cup and Vase. The three-year agreement (2023-2025) will also include the renowned FWD Champions’ Day.
Separate agreements have also been reached with NBCUniversal (NBCU) and New York Racing Association (NYRA) for America’s three most historic races, events that transcend the sport of horse racing in the US, known worldwide as the Triple Crown.
In the US, NBCU holds media rights to both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes; the final leg of the series, the Belmont Stakes, is broadcast by FOX Sports. However, international broadcasters will now be able to enjoy the full Triple Crown series as a singular rights package following these new arrangements.
The next leg of the Triple Crown, The Belmont Stakes, takes place on Saturday, 10th June. No horse has achieved the coveted Triple Crown feat since Justify’s success in 2018.
Sam Nati, Head of Commingling of the Hong Kong Jockey Club , said : “ We are very proud of our international racedays, both in April and of course December where the best Hong Kong horses take on the overseas raiders. This is what makes racing so appealing and interesting. We are particularly pleased to work with HBA Media to ensure that we reach a global audience to showcase these events.”
Alex Barnes, VP, Sports Distribution for NBCUniversal , said: “NBCUniversal is delighted to be working with HBA Media on the international distribution of the Triple Crown. NBC Sports’ long-standing history in production and broadcasting of these great races, along with HBA’s knowledge and heritage in the sport, will ensure that the Triple Crown races will be seen by as many people as possible around the world.”
Tony Allevato, NYRA’s Chief Revenue Officer and President of NYRA Bets, explains: “Horse racing is now a core product for FOX Sport courtesy of HBA Media. Our high-quality production of the Belmont Stakes is enjoyed stateside by an engaging audience and through this fresh agreement with HBA, such coverage will be rightly rewarded with global recognition.”
Henry Birtles, Chief Executive of HBA Media, added: “I am immensely proud that HBA’s racing portfolio continues to grow in stature and quality.
“With the inclusion of the Triple Crown and Hong Kong Jockey Club’s premier races, we are honoured to be helping secure an international audience for these world class sporting events.
“Our Crown Jewels package has already resulted in increased distribution and commercial revenues for all our clients - we are indebted to them for their support as we continue in our efforts to drive the sport forwards on the global stage.”
ENDS
