Edited Press Release\u00a0<\/p>\n
The 2025 Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Del Mar provided an economic boost to the San Diego region estimated at $125-million in total industry output, it was announced by Breeders’ Cup Monday.<\/p>\n
Citing an independent study conducted by Sport Management Research Institute, the organization said that the report found the World Championships supported 1,023 jobs across the region, generating $51.8-million in labor income, and $80.2-million in value added (equivalent to GDP). In addition, $11-million in federal taxes and $7.6-million in state and local taxes were generated. Applicable visitor spending totaled $38.7-million across hotels, dining, retail, transportation, and entertainment. Nearly $5-million was invested in facility enhancements and event infrastructure at Del Mar.<\/p>\n
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The two-day festival of racing held on Oct. 31-Nov. 1 produced a record global wagering of $210-million. It was the fourth time the Seaside Oval had hosted the Breeders’ Cup.<\/p>\n
\u201cBreeders’ Cup is proud to deliver not only world-class racing, but also meaningful economic impact for our host communities,\u201d said Drew Fleming, president and CEO of Breeders’ Cup Limited. \u201cThe results from Del Mar in 2025 demonstrate the strength of our global festival, from record wagering to significant job creation and visitor spending. We’re especially encouraged by the strong tourism indicators, which show how the World Championships continue to elevate host destinations and drive long-term economic benefits well beyond Breeders’ Cup week.\u201d<\/p>\n
Out-of-town visitors played a major role in driving economic activity, accounting for 61% of 43,705 unique attendees, with 82.5% citing the Breeders’ Cup as the primary purpose of their trip to the area. Visitor spending included $11.5-million spent on entertainment, recreation, and attractions apart from the World Championships. The average visiting party stayed 2.5 nights and spent approximately $5,455 for their trip.<\/p>\n
Compared to the 2017 Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar and adjusted for inflation, the 2025 edition demonstrated strong growth including a 38.9% increase in employment impact and a 12.3% increase in total economic output.<\/p>\n
Beyond immediate economic impact, the report emphasized the event’s lasting value as 66.5% of attendees indicated they plan to return to the San Diego area within the next year and 69.7% reported a more favorable impression of the region after attending.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Breeders’ Cup delivered a significant boost to San Diego’s economy\u2013supporting local jobs, generating millions in visitor spending, and bringing global attention to our region,\u201d said San Diego mayor, Todd Gloria. \u201cThis is exactly the kind of major event that drives opportunity for our small businesses and workers while reinforcing San Diego’s reputation as a world-class destination.\u201d<\/p>\n
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