Horse Show CEO: Hong Kong Has Moved Past Messi Incident, Now 'World-Class' Sports Hub
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 6 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong has shaken off the Lionel Messi fiasco and a bungled 2025 World Snooker Grand Prix to establish an "international reputation" for delivering world-class sporting events, according to Richard Ireland, CEO of Clarion Events Asia, which co-organises the prestigious Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show .
Key Points
- The third edition of the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show will take place at AsiaWorld-Expo in January 2026, featuring horses arriving via "business-class" air travel and panda-themed fences
- Messi infamously remained on the bench during an Inter Miami exhibition match at Hong Kong Stadium in February 2024, sparking public backlash
- The 2025 World Snooker Grand Prix faced global criticism after a local curfew forced spectators out of Kai Tak Arena during late-night matches
- Hong Kong is one of only two Asian hosts for a five-star international horse show, alongside Shanghai, with Ireland confirming long-term commitment to the city
- The first month of 2026 alone will feature the Hong Kong Marathon, the Puma Hyrox World Championships, and SailGP's Hong Kong debut
- Over the past 12 months, the city has also hosted world championship fencing, National Games medal events, and annual visits from global tennis, table tennis, golf, badminton and squash tours
Why It Matters
As major global sporting events increasingly seek reliable Asian hosts, Hong Kong's demonstrated ability to stage diverse competitions—from horse shows to sailing regattas—strengthens its position in the competitive events market . Ireland's endorsement signals confidence in Hong Kong's infrastructure and logistics capabilities, potentially attracting further high-profile tournaments to the city.
As major global sporting events increasingly seek reliable Asian hosts, Hong Kong's demonstrated ability to stage diverse competitions—from horse shows to sailing regattas—strengthens its position in the competitive events market . Ireland's endorsement signals confidence in Hong Kong's infrastructure and logistics capabilities, potentially attracting further high-profile tournaments to the city.