About the 2026 Durban July
The 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July is South Africa's biggest thoroughbred race and this year's renewal will take place on Saturday 4th July.
Held at Greyville, this Grade 1 race is contested by some of South Africa's best horses and it's an occasion that rivals any of the big carnivals around the world. This Durban July is also a handicap race, with several qualifying races taking place throughout the season.
There's big money on offer, not only for connections of the winning horse, but also for winning punters. Bookmakers always offer great odds for the big race at Greyville.
Durban July Prize Money
The total Durban July prize money was boosted up to R5 million by race sponsors Hollywoodbets.
The winner receives around R3 million, second place R800,000, third place R400,000 and fourth R200,000.
It's one of the richest races in South Africa.
Durban July's Previous Winners
| Year | Race Winner |
|---|---|
| 2025 | The Real Prince |
| 2024 | Oriental Charm |
| 2023 | Winchester Mansion |
| 2022 | Sparkling Water |
| 2021 | Kommetdieding |
| 2020 | Belgarion |
| 2019 | Do It Again |
| 2018 | Do It Again |
| 2017 | Marinaresco |
| 2016 | The Conglomerate |
| 2015 | Power King |
| 2014 | Legislate |
| 2013 | Heavy Metal |
| 2012 | Pomodoro |
| 2011 | Igugu |
| 2010 | Bold Silvano |
| 2009 | Big City Life |
| 2008 | Pocket Power/Dancers Daughter |
| 2007 | Hunting Tower |
| 2006 | Eyeofthetiger |
| 2005 | Dunford |
| 2004 | Greys Inn |
| 2003 | Dynasty |
| 2002 | Ipi Tombe |
| 2001 | Trademark |
| 2000 | El Picha |
| 1999 | El Picha |
| 1998 | Classic Flag |
| 1997 | Super Quality |
| 1996 | London News |
| 1995 | Teal |
| 1994 | Space Walk |
| 1993 | Dancing Duel |
| 1992 | Spanish Galliard |
| 1991 | Flaming Rock |
| 1990 | Illustrador |
| 1989 | Right Prerogative |
| 1988 | Royal Chalice |
Durban July Theme
The Durban July theme for 2026 is "Country Allure", which blends rural charm with classic racing glamour.
This year's theme invites designers, fashionistas and racegoers to draw inspiration from sweeping countryside landscapes, equestrian heritage and earth‑toned textures.
Durban July Tickets
Tickets for the Durban July Festival will be on sale at the start of the year.
Durban July Live Stream
If you aren't aren't fortunate enough to buy a ticket for the Durban July, you can watch the race from the comfort of your own home, or on the go.
For details on how you can watch this famous race via a mobile or tablet, then check out our Durban July Live Stream page.
Durban July Hospitality
Durban is one of South Africa's largest cities and is generally attracts many tourists. None more so for the Durban July. The city expects to see an influx of local travelers during the meeting, and racing fans come from all of the country to watch the Durban July.
There are many fantastic hospitality options in the city for both the luxury and budget travelers so be sure to check for available hospitality in the area.
Durban July Greyville Racecourse
Greyville Racecourse is located in Durban and the entire distance of the track is around 2800m.
With many undulations throughout the journey, Greyville presents Durban July runners with a testing circuit and it's the perfect track to showcase the tough thoroughbreds.
Durban July Betting Promotions
There will certainly be many betting promotions doing the rounds for the Durban July. Check in with your bookmaker closer to the time to find what promotions are available to you.
Durban July FAQ
When is the 2026 Durban July?
The 2026 Durban July will take place on 4 July 2026.
What is the Durban July?
The Durban July is the largest horse racing event in South Africa. The Durban July is a Grade One Handicap race staged over a trip of 2200m (11 furlongs)
Where does the Durban July take place?
The Durban July takes place at the Greyville racecourse in Durban, South Africa every year.
Who won the Durban July?
The 2025 Durban July was won by The Real Prince, who beat hot-favourite Eight On Eighteen.
What is the Durban July fashion theme?
The 2026 Durban July fashion theme was "Country Allure".
Where can I live stream the Durban July?
There are many online bookmakers who offer the Durban July on live stream including bet365. YouTube has also gotten in on the act and will live stream the days events.
