In a move that blends tradition with modern entertainment, Vietnam has officially approved a $60 million horse and dog racing complex in Lam Dong province — complete with legal betting. The Thien Ma – Madagui Horse and Dog Racing Track, a project that’s been over a decade in the making, is set to redefine the racing scene in Vietnam while tapping into a regulated wagering market.
The Big Decision
Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh recently signed off on the investment policy for the racecourse, marking a turning point for the industry. The project, valued at 1,500 billion VND (approximately $60 million), will be located in Da Huoai District and developed by Thien Ma – Madagui Horse Racing JSC.
The approval is part of the Lam Dong Provincial Planning Conference’s certified investment projects for 2021–2030, with a vision extending to 2050.
Key Project Highlights
The racecourse will feature:
- A 2,000-meter horse racing track meeting Asian Racing Federation (ARF) standards.
- A dedicated greyhound track.
- On-site and nationwide betting facilities across 50 authorized locations — 28 major venues and 22 smaller outlets.
- Modern stables, spectator stands, and a secure betting system backed by advanced technology.
Strict Oversight & Compliance
Under the approved plan, Lam Dong authorities will oversee:
- Legal compliance and construction progress.
- Completion of the dog racing track is required before granting a business license for betting.
- Maintenance of public security and order during operations.
The developers must also provide a clear investment plan, stick to timelines, and ensure betting systems are both technologically sound and fair.
A Long Road to Approval
The Thien Ma – Madagui project was first approved in 2011 but stalled due to land clearance problems and shifting regulatory frameworks.
In 2017, a temporary 1,200-meter track hosted nine horse races, but the absence of betting authorization meant operations were soon halted. Determined to meet international standards and capture the excitement of regulated betting, the company expanded the track length and reapplied for full approval — finally securing it in 2025.
Experienced Developers
Thien Ma – Madagui JSC isn’t new to racing:
- Partnered with Phu Tho Sports Club to run the Phu Tho Racecourse in Ho Chi Minh City (2004–2011).
- Built and managed Lam Son Greyhound Racing Track in Vung Tau, which operated for over two decades before closing in 2023.
This track record suggests the new Lam Dong racecourse will combine entertainment value with professional management.
Economic & Tourism Potential
The racecourse is more than just sport — it’s an economic driver. Expected benefits include:
- Job creation for locals during construction and operations.
- Boost to tourism in Lam Dong, a province already known for its natural beauty.
- New streams of tax revenue from regulated betting.
- Opportunities for hospitality businesses, from hotels to restaurants, to cater to visitors.
Why Legal Betting Matters
Vietnam’s move to legalize betting for this project could:
- Reduce illegal gambling by offering a regulated alternative.
- Increase government revenue through licensing and taxation.
- Promote transparency and integrity in racing events.
For racing fans, it means enjoying the thrill of the sport without the legal grey areas that have long surrounded betting in Vietnam.
The Road Ahead
With approval secured, the next steps involve:
- Fast-tracking construction to meet projected timelines.
- Finalizing betting infrastructure, including technology, payment systems, and security protocols.
- Marketing campaigns to attract both domestic and international tourists.
If all goes according to plan, Vietnam could soon become a regional player in the racing and betting sector, blending cultural heritage with modern entertainment trends.
Conclusion
The Thien Ma – Madagui Horse and Dog Racing Track marks a new chapter for Vietnamese sport and tourism. After years of delays, the project’s approval signals government confidence in its potential to generate revenue, jobs, and excitement.
For Lam Dong province, it’s not just about racing — it’s about economic momentum, tourism growth, and placing Vietnam firmly on the map for legal betting entertainment in Southeast Asia.