Mumbai's Mahalaxmi Racecourse to get new Olympic-level underground sports complex

Mumbai’s 140-year-old Mahalaxmi Racecourse is set for a futuristic makeover, without losing its historic charm. The BMC plans a two-level underground complex beneath the greens, featuring an Olympic-grade sports facility including a 400m track, swimming pool, tennis/squash courts, and more. Designed by Hafeez Contractor, the project ensures natural light and ventilation via skylights and open moats.

While the historic racecourse continues under RWITC's management, the surrounding 120 acres will transform into a vibrant public space. The surface-level redesign features:

• A sprawling 63-acre topiary garden with educational herb zones

• 13.6 acres for open-air concerts and events

• 11.6 acres preserved as urban forest (protecting existing trees)

• Potential indoor arena for monsoon-proof programming

Below ground, an innovative two-tier complex will house:

• Olympic-standard sports facilities (swimming pool, 400m track, multiple courts)

• Massive 5,000-car parking with direct freeway access

• Intelligent design featuring skylights and moats for natural light/airflow

Hafeez Contractor highlights that the project goes beyond mere infrastructure, calling it a legacy initiative. He points out Mumbai's long-standing lack of quality training facilities, and explains that the design preserves the racecourse’s heritage while introducing modern amenities to foster future champions.