Hong Kong should capitalise on the success of the Asian Cup qualifier at Kai Tak Stadium on Tuesday night by maximising the potential of the venue and engagement with business sectors to boost the economy, according to analysts.
A total of 42,570 football fans witnessed Hong Kong’s 1-0 victory over India, packing the stands with a sea of red and roaring chants as the team hosted an international match for the first time at the new stadium.
Vincent Cheng Wing-shun, vice-chairman of the major sports events committee, told a radio show on Wednesday that the game’s success showed it does not always take a foreign sports star or top singers to fill the stadium.
He also noted the affordable ticket price – as low as HK$80 – played a role.
“The success of last night’s game has been a shot of confidence for sponsors and partners; it’s important for us to capitalise on this opportunity to develop a host city economy and fan economy,” he said.
Cheng said the concept encompassed game planning, ticket sales, venue management, public relations, merchandise, sponsorship, and more.
