Africa’s richest horse race has just become even richer. The Hollywoodbets Durban July will double its total prize money to R10 million next year, marking the biggest stakes increase in the event’s 129-year history. The winner’s purse will rise to R6 million, and prize money will now extend to the first 12 finishers instead of the previous nine.
The announcement was made last Friday at Hollywoodbets Greyville racecourse during the “July in Christmas” preview event. Hollywoodbets brand and communications manager Devin Heffer said the 2026 edition — the 130th running of the Durban July — will also return to its traditional handicap format, opening the field to a wider range of competitive horses. “Handicap races level the playing field by allocating weight according to a horse’s merit rating, age and sex,” said Heffer.
He said the shift gives long-shot horses a genuine chance and increases betting value for punters. “This is the race that belongs to Mzansi. The true handicap will add hugely to the excitement.” Hollywoodbets took over sponsorship in 2022 and raised the stakes from R2 million to R5 million.
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