Sandton, South Africa – Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has officially launched the 2026 Toyota Equestrian Series at the iconic Kyalami Park Club, continuing a partnership that has actively shaped the country’s equestrian landscape over the past four years. The announcement unveiled a thrilling competition calendar for 2026, accompanied by an enhanced prize offering designed to inspire greater participation and captivate spectators nationwide.
Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors, shared the brand’s excitement for the season ahead.
“As we enter the fifth year of our partnership with Kyalami Park Club, we look forward to reinforcing our commitment to advancing equestrian sport in South Africa,” said Crompton. “As a family‑oriented brand, we are honoured to welcome riders, supporters and communities from across the country to the 2026 season. The enhanced prize purse reflects our confidence in the growing stature of the series and the remarkable depth of local talent. We can’t wait to witness the pursuit of excellence that defines this competition.”
The 2026 series promises to challenge riders and horses at the highest level, testing their fitness, precision, composure and the partnership that forms the backbone of success in equestrian sport.
Dressage: A Starlet Cross for the Champion
The 2026 Toyota South African Dressage Championships, scheduled from 29 July to 2 August at Kyalami Park Club, will showcase the nation’s top horse and rider combinations. A highlight of the event is the draw to win a brand-new Toyota Starlet Cross, adding extra excitement to what promises to be a fiercely contested championship.
Showjumping: The Ultimate 4×4 Series Powered by Toyota
The showjumping season, rebranded as the “Ultimate 4×4 Series Powered by Toyota,” features four premier events:
- Toyota Easter Festival (28 March – 6 April)
- Toyota Midrand World Cup Qualifier (28 – 31 May)
- Toyota SA Showjumping Championships (29 July – 2 August)
- 2026 Toyota SA Derby (1 – 5 October)
At the conclusion of the series, the overall champion will drive home a new Toyota Hilux D/C Legend, a prize proudly sponsored by Toyota South Africa Motors.
Heather Mpofu, Event Director at Kyalami Park Club, reflected on the milestone partnership.
“Entering our fifth year with Toyota is significant,” Mpofu said. “Their continued investment enables us to deliver world-class events and showcase the very best of South African equestrian talent. Each year, the series grows in scale and impact, and we are proud to work alongside a partner that shares our vision for excellence.”
Commitment to Development and Inclusion
Kyalami Park Club’s dedication to growth extends beyond competition. The KPC Academy, launched earlier this year, now supports 15 riders, providing comprehensive training opportunities. Mpofu explained, “Our academy riders receive mentorship from professional athletes, learning all aspects of equestrian sport—from training and show preparation to grooming, horse care and administration. Our goal is to nurture great riders and build better people, because equestrian is a career, not just a hobby.”
The 2026 Toyota Equestrian Series promises a season marked by elite performance, community engagement and continued growth within South Africa’s equestrian landscape. For updates, follow Kyalami Park Club on Facebook and Instagram (@kpckep).
