Jockey Club CEO Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges praised the Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) as possibly the best ever, with nearly 70,000 attendees at Sha Tin, including a record 6,511 mainland tourists—a 40% increase from last year—and new Culture, Sports and Tourism Secretary Rosanna Law Shuk-pui. Engelbrecht-Bresges emphasized plans to double mainland tourist numbers by 2030 and attract more international visitors, supported by enhanced facilities and event experiences like the Rain concert. The event drew a total crowd of 80,691 across venues, with betting turnover slightly up and a 10% increase in overseas betting, reflecting growing global interest.

On the racing front, local star Romantic Warrior broke the world prize money record previously held by Golden Sixty by winning a third consecutive Group One Hong Kong Cup, while overseas contender Giavellotto secured the first British victory at HKIR since 2012. The event attracted notable figures such as former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who expressed enthusiasm for Hong Kong racing. Engelbrecht-Bresges highlighted the importance of international owners, trainers, and jockeys in making HKIR a global event and expressed confidence in its continued growth and appeal.