Hong Kong is poised to cement its status as a global sports hub in 2025, with the opening of the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park in March set to anchor a packed calendar of high-profile events, officials announced Monday.
Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law hailed 2025 as a “landmark year” for the city’s sports scene, highlighting the upcoming Football Festival in February, featuring four major European clubs, and the National Games in November, co-hosted with Macau and Guangdong.
“These events are more than just games and competitions,” Law said during a speech at a local event. “They showcase Hong Kong as a centre for major international sports events and create a festive atmosphere all through our city.”
The $4 billion Kai Tak Sports Park, a sprawling complex with a 50,000-seat main stadium, an indoor arena, and extensive community facilities, is expected to draw international attention and boost the city’s sports tourism industry. The venue’s debut will coincide with a surge in global sporting interest, positioning Hong Kong as a key player in the region.
At the same event, Kenneth Fok, a sports sector lawmaker, urged National Games organizers to finalize ticketing arrangements swiftly to enhance planning for visitors, particularly from the Greater Bay Area, which includes Hong Kong, Macau, and nine mainland Chinese cities.
“Once the announcement is made, we can then work out better sports tourism experiences for tourists,” Fok told reporters. “This would not only serve as a rare opportunity to promote the development of local sports but also a chance to combine sports and tourism.”
Fok emphasized the importance of engaging the local community, especially young students, in the National Games through spectating or participating in related activities. “We want to inspire the next generation to embrace sports, whether by cheering from the stands or joining in community events,” he said.
The Football Festival, expected to feature top-tier European teams, is anticipated to draw thousands of fans, while the National Games will showcase elite athletes from across China, further elevating Hong Kong’s profile. Law and Fok both expressed optimism that these events would stimulate the local economy and foster a deeper sports culture in the city.
As Hong Kong prepares for this transformative year, officials are banking on the combination of world-class facilities and blockbuster events to position the city as a premier destination for sports and tourism alike.
