From 15–22 March 2026, South Africa once again becomes the stage for one of the world’s toughest mountain-bike races, the Absa Cape Epic. For the fourth consecutive year, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) proudly returns as sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to endurance, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of conquering every challenge. The partnership mirrors the ethos shared by riders and vehicles alike: the will to overcome what seems impossible.
The eight-day race begins with an intense prologue and unfolds across seven stages of punishing climbs, technical descents, and terrain that tests every ounce of skill and stamina. A defining element of the race remains the Toyota Tough sections, strategic segments designed to push even the strongest riders to their limits. These challenging stretches are not only decisive for stage outcomes but also perfectly showcase the off-road capability and technical mastery of the Land Cruiser Prado. Toyota’s support fleet navigates remote trails and mountain passes, ensuring smooth race operations while offering VIP guests the thrill of guided route tours, highlighting the Prado’s legendary durability in action.
At the forefront of Toyota’s presence in the race are the riders proudly donning Toyota jerseys. The men’s Toyota Specialized Inbuko team features three-time Absa Cape Epic champion Matt Beers paired with 2025 podium finisher Tristan Nortje, a combination brimming with strength and tactical skill. Marco Joubert and Travis Stedman bring invaluable experience and consistency, while rising talents Lood Goosen and Jaedon Terlouw look to leave their mark on this year’s race.
In the women’s category, Candice Lill teams up with Swiss world champion Alessandra Keller as part of the Thömus Maxon Sabi-Sabi team. With experience and championship pedigree, this pairing is a top contender for the title. The mixed category sees Toyota Gazoo Racing stars Sarah Maré and Riaan Weideman, recent Tanka Trek podium finishers, aiming for a strong showing. Toyota’s sponsorship of the mixed category highlights its ongoing commitment to equality and representation, with the green category leader jersey awarded to the top mixed team after each stage.
The Absa Cape Epic is more than a race; it’s a celebration of teamwork, courage, and the determination to push beyond perceived limits. These values resonate deeply with Toyota, whose vehicles are engineered to perform in the harshest conditions. Glenn Crompton, Vice President: Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors, captures the essence of this partnership: “Our continued partnership with the Absa Cape Epic reflects Toyota’s belief in pushing boundaries and embracing challenges. For the fourth-year running, Toyota is proud to support a race that challenges both riders and vehicles to perform in some of the toughest conditions imaginable.”
From remote mountain passes to dramatic finish lines, Toyota will once again be present, ensuring every stage of the Absa Cape Epic is supported by vehicles designed to conquer the most demanding terrain. Conquer your terrain. See you on the trail.
