Launched in February this year, the 2026 Toyota Equestrian Series set the stage for an exhilarating year of competition, unveiling a packed calendar and enhanced prize offerings designed to build excitement, elevate competition and deepen engagement across South Africa’s equestrian community.
And deliver it has.
The four-year partnership between Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) and Kyalami Park Club has continued to drive the sport forward, both in and out of the saddle. Increased participation, heightened spectator engagement and a shared pursuit of excellence have all contributed to an exceptional 2026 season – culminating in the ultimate calendar highlight, the Toyota SA Derby.
South Africa’s much-loved equestrian show returns from Thursday, 1 October to Sunday, 4 October 2026, at the country’s premier equestrian venue, Kyalami Equestrian Park, promising four days of world-class competition, entertainment and extraordinary equestrian experiences.
As the grand finale of The Ultimate 4X4 Series, the 2026 Toyota Equestrian Series, the Toyota SA Derby will bring the four-event series to a thrilling conclusion. The overall Series champion will walk away with the ultimate prize – a brand-new Toyota Hilux D/C Legend, proudly sponsored by Toyota South Africa Motors.
Heather Mpofu, Event Director at Kyalami Park Club, says the Toyota SA Derby continues to raise the bar each year, with the venue meticulously prepared to welcome the country’s finest horse-and-rider combinations.
“The Toyota SA Derby pushes horse and rider to their limits, showcasing what is possible through hard work, passion and a deep respect for the sport and those who have helped shape it. It is for this reason that it has earned its reputation as the ‘Toughest Title to Win’. This year, the SA Derby turns 61, and it’s a birthday we intend to celebrate in style.
“From world-class courses and exceptional hospitality to an exciting programme that offers something for everyone – from lifelong horse lovers to those discovering the sport for the first time – the 2026 Toyota SA Derby promises to be an unforgettable experience. There really is nowhere else you would rather be when the country’s equestrian community comes together to celebrate this incredible sport.”
The Toyota South African Derby represents the ultimate test of athleticism, partnership, precision and communication between horse and rider. Its iconic 1 200-metre, 18-obstacle course has remained relatively unchanged since the event’s inception in 1965, preserving its status as one of the most demanding and prestigious titles in South African equestrian sport.
Across four action-packed days, spectators can experience an exciting blend of disciplines, including Dressage, Showjumping, Showing and Compleat Horse, with the event once again set to deliver an atmosphere that makes the Toyota SA Derby a firm fixture on the equestrian calendar.
Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors, says:
“The Toyota South African Derby represents the very best of equestrian sport, showcasing the discipline, trust and pursuit of excellence that define the partnership between horse and rider. Through our partnership with Kyalami Park Club, Toyota is proud to support a platform that continues to elevate the sport, inspire talent and bring communities together. As the pinnacle of the Toyota Equestrian Series, the Derby remains a celebration of world-class competition, passion and achievement. It continues to engage fans whilst strengthening the future of equestrian sport in South Africa. We look forward to welcoming competitors and spectators to another exceptional event.”
Among the weekend’s fan favourites is the exhilarating Micro Speed Derby, which consistently draws a capacity crowd with its combination of speed, skill and excitement. Meanwhile, the Compleat Horse competition, featuring a R20 000 prize purse, promises to showcase some truly extraordinary performances from horse-and-rider combinations.
There will be something happening across every arena throughout the weekend, with the Show Horse Derby, Working Riding Derby, Working Hunter Derby and Dressage Derby adding to a full spectrum of equestrian entertainment.
Beyond the competition arena, the 2026 Toyota South African Derby invites visitors from near and far to experience an exceptional weekend filled with thrilling competition, challenging courses and a celebration of all things equestrian.
Guests can enjoy an array of food stalls and markets, world-class Toyota vehicle displays and driving experiences, as well as exciting activities for children – ensuring that the Toyota SA Derby offers an unforgettable day out for the entire family.
Ticketing and VIP Experiences
Entry is free from Thursday, 1 October to Saturday, 3 October, while tickets will be required for Sunday, 4 October.
Ticketing information and VIP experience details are available at www.kyalamipark.com and via the Kyalami Park Equestrian Facebook page.
For those looking to elevate their experience, a range of premium VIP packages will be available, offering an exclusive way to enjoy the competition, hospitality and atmosphere.
All ticket options, including grandstand and VIP packages, include access to the highly anticipated after-party, featuring an exceptional line-up of musicians. It’s the perfect way to round off a spectacular day, celebrate the achievements of horse and rider, and bring the equestrian community together in true Toyota SA Derby style.
