The highly anticipated theme for the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July was unveiled at an exclusive event at Hollywoodbets Greyville, attended by media, fashion schools, racing enthusiasts, and celebrities.
Bookmark The South African website for all the build-up to the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July.
As the 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 No 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.
Vibrant culture
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 Hollywoodbets Durban July 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 in 2022?
The excitement continued in 2023 when Winchester Mansion, ridden by Winning Form-sponsored jockey Kabelo Matsunyane, narrowly defeated legendary jockey Piere 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.
‘Highly engaged audience’
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 Hollywoodbets Durban July 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 Hollywoodbets Durban July 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 company, is honoured to support an event that not only boosts the economy but also unites South Africans in celebration.
‘Proudly South African business’
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 5 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 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July takes place on Saturday, 5 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville racecourse.
Tickets will go on sale in April on the Ticketpro website.
Marvels of Mzansi
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!
