The highly anticipated theme for the Hollywoodbets Durban July (HDJ) was unveiled in spectacular fashion at an exclusive event at Hollywoodbets Greyville, attended by media, fashion schools, racing enthusiasts, and celebrities.
As the proud title sponsor of Africa’s premier horse racing and social spectacle, Hollywoodbets is honoured to reveal the 2025 theme: “Marvels of Mzansi.” This captivating theme celebrates South Africa’s rich heritage, cultural diversity, and breath-taking landscapes, paying tribute to the nation’s extraordinary achievements.
Since the dawn of the Rainbow Nation, South Africa has had much to celebrate in the sporting arena – from the 1995 Rugby World Cup, when Francois Pienaar lifted the trophy as Nelson Mandela cheered him on in the iconic number 6 jersey, to Bafana Bafana’s 1996 AFCON triumph and Siya Kolisi’s historic back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories. These moments have united and inspired the nation. In the same spirit, the Hollywoodbets Durban July brings people together to celebrate South Africa’s heritage, resilience, and vibrant culture, showcasing the marvels that make Mzansi extraordinary.
As South Africa’s premier horse racing event, the HDJ has given the nation memories that will last a lifetime. Who could forget when Sparkling Water, a then four-year-old filly, like a bolt out of the blue, set the world alight by winning the prestigious event? The excitement continued in 2023 when Winchester Mansion, ridden by Winning Form-sponsored jockey Kabelo Matsunyane, narrowly defeated legendary jockey Pierre Strydom, who was aboard the pre-race favourite, See It Again. For tens of thousands of people at Hollywoodbets Greyville, it was a race to remember, as the excitement reached fever pitch while they witnessed equine excellence.
Stephen Marshall, Gold Circle’s Events and Marketing Executive, expressed his excitement for this year’s theme, “Our pride in Mzansi’s heritage and culture extends beyond sporting excellence—it’s also reflected in the innovation, tenacity, and resilience of its people. The HDJ is more than just a major event that attracts visitors from across South Africa to KwaZulu-Natal; it provides a platform for participants to showcase their skills and talents to a highly engaged audience.”
The HDJ is one of the most significant events for the economy of KwaZulu-Natal, with a profound impact on various sectors. As one of the premier horse racing events in South Africa, it attracts thousands of visitors, both local and international, leading to a surge in tourism and hospitality spending. Hollywoodbets, a proudly South African brand, is honoured to support an event that not only boosts the economy but also unites South Africans in celebration.
Hollywoodbets Brand and Communications Manager, Devin Heffer commented, “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. As a proudly South African business, this year’s theme, ‘Marvels of Mzansi,’ couldn’t be more fitting. It celebrates our country’s rich heritage, diversity, and extraordinary achievements, all set against the vibrant energy of Durban. Last year, the event welcomed close to 40 000 attendees and contributed an incredible R717 million to the city’s GDP, reinforcing its status as a major driver of tourism and economic growth. On the 5th of July, Hollywoodbets Greyville will once again be the heartbeat of the nation, as we come together to showcase the true marvels of Mzansi.”
By announcing the theme to KwaZulu-Natal’s top fashion schools, the Hollywoodbets Durban July aims to inspire South Africa’s fashionistas, young designers, and avant-garde creatives to interpret ‘Marvels of Mzansi’ in their own unique ways—where the possibilities are endless.
The Hollywoodbets Durban July takes place on Saturday 5 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville racecourse. Tickets will go on sale in April on the Ticketpro website.
- Media release by Hollywoodbets on Friday, 28 February 2025.
