Sports Bureau (ID) President Pun Weng Kun told reporters after the Macau Grand Prix yesterday afternoon that the three-day event had attracted about 56,000 spectators, which was an increase compared to last year.
Pun said that even though the number of spectators was not as high as pre-COVID-19 days he believed that by hosting the Grand Prix it could promote Macau as a healthy and quality travel destination.
When asked by a reporter, as there were “only” 56,000 spectators, was it worth hosting the Grand Prix, Pun replied that this year’s Grand Prix was budgeted at 170 million patacas and he believed that the expenses would be within budget. He added that he did not have the numbers for ticket sales, but this year’s event received 33 million patacas from sponsors.
Pun underlined that besides the ongoing Formula 1 races, there have been only a few Grand Prix races around the world, stressing that Macau being able to host two Grand Prix events amidst the COVID-19 pandemic meant a lot to the motor-racing industry.
According to Pun, the bureau will right away start preparing for the 2022 Grand Prix. He said that whether there will be other races held during Macau’s Grand Prix next year would depend on the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile), pointing out that he will keep the public posted.
Meanwhile, Pun also said that the several drivers who were taken to the hospital were not in a serious condition, adding that some of them had already been discharged.
Sports Bureau (ID) President Pun Weng Kun talks to the media after yesterday’s 68th Macau Grand Prix. Photo: Camy Tam
