Durban July is Racing Closer: All You Need to Know
Durban July, South Africa’s most prestigious horse racing event, is coming up soon, on Saturday, 5 July 2025. Taking place at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, the afternoon will be filled with glamour, beauty, entertainment and standing behind your favourite horses and jockeys. With only 15 days until race day, tickets are selling out and tensions are rising. So, here is all you need to know.
Marvels of Mzansi
Of course, there is always a fashionable trend for the Durban July. This year, Hollywoodbets announced “Marvels of Mzansi” as the theme. It celebrates South Africa’s rich heritage, diversity, natural beauty and extraordinary achievements.
Hollywoodbets Brand and Communication Manager, Devin Hefner, said: ““The Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race—it’s a cultural phenomenon that unites fashion, entertainment, and world-class horse racing on an electrifying stage.”
With the announcement of the theme, there also came a poem to help people understand the theme’s underlying meaning or make it there own:
“A marvel is a moment, a person, or place
That catches your breath with its beauty and grace.
With majestic mountains and magnificent views,
These natural wonders could be your muse.
The gold of the sunrise, or mined from the ground,
Just a taste of our treasures, but more can be found.
Like dazzling diamonds refracting the light,
Into a rainbow of cultures that smile so bright.
The groom, jockey, trainer, owner and breeder,
Are part of the squad that makes a race leader,
With a marvel of nature, the thoroughbred horse,
Each four-legged athlete, a phenomenal force.
On this day of fashion held in high esteem,
There is heritage woven into every seam.
From village, to township, to deep urban centre,
Seek patterns and colour, an ensemble adventure.
As Ubuntu unites us in a joyful way
Feel the pulse of South Africa at the HDJ
Let’s honour our past and the victories won
For the Marvels of Mzansi shine in everyone!”
Entertainment Line-Up
This year’s Durban July entertainment is said to be as iconic as the event itself. It will be headlined by some of South Africa’s most celebrated music talent, delivering a spectacular showcase of live performances and DJ sets that will electrify crowds. Firstly, Zolani Mahola will be singing the national anthem, but her fellow musicians on the main stage include:
1. Mafikizolo
2. Lira
3. Hot Water
4. GoodLuck
5. DJ Dalootz
6. Lee Cole
7. Sunset Sweatshop
“This year’s Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race — it’s a full cultural experience, where the public will truly feel the pulse and the essence of this lifestyle event,” said Zandile Dlamini, Hollywoodbets Spokesperson. “We’re thrilled to present an entertainment lineup that celebrates the best of South African music and adds another layer of magic to an already iconic event.”
Furthermore, attendees can expect fashion displays, gourmet hospitality experiences and vibrant social energy that sees Durban July on its 129th year running.
Betting on a Winner
At the first declaration, the favourite for this year is HDJ defending champion and WSB Cape Town Met winner, EIGHT ON EIGHTEEN with 5/2 odds. Defending HDJ champion ORIENTAL CHARM follows closely with 7/2 odds. Furthermore, third place is currently a tie between SEE IT AGAIN and SAIL THE SEAS, both with 8/2 odds. Altogether, there are a total of 49 horses and jockeys set to run the race. Learn more about casting horse racing bets here.
Tickets, tickets, tickets
General access tickets are available from Ticketpro, starting from R230. However, for a more premium experience, one can buy tickets for curated experiences at Ambrosia Haven, Afrotainment Marquee, Empire Lounge, Boomtown, Pegasus Lounge, Mzansi Durban July, Hive Marquee or Saso’s Brunch Marquee.
Curator of Saso’s Brunch Marquee, Lusaso Ngcobo, said: “This isn’t just a marquee. It’s a movement. We’ve curated an atmosphere where music, luxury, and heritage collide to create something exceptional — something that lives on in people’s memories.”
This is a national event for South Africa, and you don’t want to miss the chance to get dressed up and say: “We are off to the races!”
