Key Moments:
- Casper Stylsvig is set to become Executive Director, Sports Business, at the HKJC starting January 2026
- His role includes driving commercial growth across horse racing, football, lottery, and new sports categories
- Hong Kong’s recent legalisation of basketball betting is expected to create significant new revenue streams for the club
Leadership Appointment Targets Sports Business Diversification
Recently, the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) has announced Casper Stylsvig as its next Executive Director, Sports Business, beginning January 2026. Stylsvig will join HKJC’s Board of Management and will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges. Overall, this leadership change reflects HKJC’s intention to broaden its sports entertainment offerings, especially as legal basketball betting prepares to launch under the club’s exclusive citywide license.
Expanding Revenue Through Multiple Sports Channels
Moving forward, Stylsvig will manage the entire sports business portfolio at HKJC, focusing on growing commercial revenues in established divisions such as horse racing and football, as well as lottery and new sporting categories.. His mandate involves enhancing both wagering and non-wagering revenue by developing sponsorships, partnerships, and innovative business ventures. Consequently, HKJC views this appointment as a pivotal step in its strategy to uncover new opportunities, expand globally, and adapt to regulatory changes in sports wagering.
Capitalizing on Newly Legalized Basketball Betting
Meanwhile, the introduction of legal basketball betting marks a significant development for HKJC, which holds sole rights over all legal sports wagering in Hong Kong. The club plans to integrate this new offering into its digital and retail platforms, aiming to attract new audiences and increase entertainment options. The new business line is expected to drive higher turnover and appeal to younger bettors, while maintaining the club’s commitment to responsible gambling and contributions to the community.
Stylsvig’s Global Experience Bolsters HKJC’s Strategy
With over two decades of commercial leadership at top European football clubs, Stylsvig brings valuable experience to HKJC’s mission. He previously served as Chief Revenue Officer at Chelsea FC, managing sponsorships, partnerships, and fan engagement worldwide. His background includes key roles at FC Barcelona, Manchester United, Fulham FC, and AC Milan, where he specialized in revenue growth and global expansion. This expertise is expected to help HKJC refine its commercial operations and fan engagement strategies.
Positioning for Innovation and International Ventures
HKJC is planning to pursue new ventures and international collaboration opportunities, particularly by leveraging Hong Kong’s position as a global hub. Stylsvig is anticipated to help the club identify and secure strategic partnerships abroad, further extending its reach in the sports and entertainment sectors. Following the announcement, Stylsvig described his new position as a natural next step and highlighted the chance to apply global football best practices to HKJC’s evolving sports business.
Strengthening HKJC’s Standing Amid Market Transformation
This executive appointment underscores HKJC’s response to rapid changes in the sports and betting landscape. With basketball wagering about to launch and other sports potentially on the horizon, the club is working to attract new demographics and sustain business momentum. Stylsvig’s leadership is expected to be instrumental in guiding HKJC’s growth while ensuring continued standards of integrity and community involvement.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| New Executive Director, Sports Business | Casper Stylsvig |
| Start Date | January 2026 |
| Scope of Responsibility | Horse racing, football, lottery, and new sports verticals |
| Reporting To | Chief Executive Officer Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges |
| New Business Opportunity | Legal basketball betting |
- Author
Daniel Williams
