Hollywoodbets Doubles Durban July Prize Money to R10 Million
Hollywoodbets has announced that the 2026 Durban July will offer a total prize pool of R10 million, doubling the previous amount and solidifying its status as Africa’s richest horse race. The winner will claim an extraordinary R6 million, while the remaining prize money will be shared among the next 11 finishers rather than the nine of previous years.
Hollywoodbets took over the sponsorship of the Durban July in 2022, immediately increasing the prize money from R2 million to R5 million. Since then, the event has grown in prestige and popularity, prompting the decision to double the stakes to R10 million for the 2026 edition.
Speaking during the “July in Christmas” event held at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on 5 December, Devin Heffer, the group’s brand and communications manager, confirmed that the 130th running of the race will return to its traditional handicap format.
“Weights are allocated in handicap races which enable horses of varied ability to race competitively against each other. Taking into account the variables of age and sex, the fundamental is that the higher a horse’s official merit rating, the more weight that horse will carry. This opens the Hollywoodbets Durban July to a wider competitive spectrum of owners and horses. And by reducing the lightest weight horses carry – that is from 54kgs to 52kgs – and increasing the heaviest weight, we’re levelling the playing field and honouring the true handicap heritage of a race that was first run in 1897,” said Devin.
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The handicap adjustments will expand the weight spread from 7kg to 10kg, with the minimum weight lowered to 52kg and the top weight raised to 62kg. Combined with the larger prize pool and more open competition for the 18 available spots, these changes are expected to intensify the race and attract a highly competitive field. The 2026 Durban July promises to be a major highlight on South Africa’s racing calendar, benefiting owners, trainers, jockeys, grooms, and the millions of fans who follow the event.
“This is the race that belongs to Mzansi, and the true handicap will add hugely to its excitement. It gives punters more chances to win, and it means that even long-shot horses have a real chance of glory in a race that is the pinnacle achievement of every owner, trainer, breeder, jockey and groom in South Africa,” Devin continued.
