G2E 2025: Hornbuckle remains hopeful for Vegas tourism
The MGM Resorts International CEO addressed this topic in a recent keynote panel.
Key Points
- Hornbuckle acknowledged the past two years as successful in terms of Vegas tourism and local spending
- Upcoming events like Formula 1 and other sporting events could potentially create additional tourism hotspots
This week at G2E 2025 in Las Vegas, MGM Resorts International CEO Bill Hornbuckle shared his thoughts on current Vegas tourism concerns.
Hornbuckle spoke at a recent keynote panel this week, along with DraftKings CEO Jason Robins and Flutter Entertainment CEO Peter Jackson.
Regarding past tourism trends in Las Vegas, Hornbuckle described both 2023 and 2024 as “amazing years” and said comparing what is happening in 2025 to higher tourism trends the previous year makes sense.
Hornbuckle commented, “If you look at those in real dollar terms compared to today’s value, they’re probably the best two years the industry has ever known.
“Obviously, as we sit here in 2025 and everything’s comparative to last year, because it’s just last year. It’s just the nature of the beast.”
The executive acknowledged some events that have caused concern and have potentially impacted local tourism. However, Hornbuckle remained confident Vegas attractions and amenities will continue to bring in gaming and non-gaming visitors.
He said, “Obviously, we’ve had been characterized. We all know what’s happened with Canada. We all know what’s happened, particularly this market with Spirit Airlines, in terms of the seats being removed. And so, we are coming out of that.
“But as I look to the future, I think the next 16 months are going to be the best the city has never had or ever seen. And so, what’s on the books, not only with MGM Resorts, but the community at large, literally, is facing up to be the best 16 months.”
Good to know: Las Vegas has hosted Formula 1 racing for the past two years
The CEO also said he is hopeful 2025 tourism will bounce back due to upcoming Las Vegas events.
He said in closing, “I look forward to something like Formula 1, which can be another tremendous success. It continues to build on itself.
“I think we’ve got that aligned and going a really good direction. I think of all the other activities scheduled for the first and second half of next year, all positives.”
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