Johannesburg – Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is gearing up to take centre stage once again as the Official Vehicle and Route Partner of the 2025 FNB Wines2Whales (W2W), South Africa’s breathtakingly scenic stage race, affectionately known as “the race with gees.” Following a successful three-year collaboration, Toyota is thrilled to extend its sponsorship for another three years, further cementing its role in one of the country’s most celebrated cycling events.
Scheduled from 31 October to 9 November 2025, the W2W combines world-class mountain biking with the spirit of camaraderie and fun that has made it a standout on the national sporting calendar. Toyota’s fleet of Hilux Legend 55’s will be on hand to provide crucial support throughout the event, ensuring a seamless experience for staff, crew, and riders alike. From transporting race officials to providing logistical assistance along the route, Toyota is helping the W2W deliver a race that is both thrilling and impeccably managed.
Three Iconic Stages, One Unforgettable Journey
The 2025 W2W will once again span three legendary stages, each with its own unique character and challenge:
- Chardonnay (31 October – 2 November): Riders navigate the scenic, undulating trails, testing endurance and skill.
- Pinotage (3 – 5 November): A stage that blends technical sections with breathtaking vistas, drawing elite cyclists from across the globe.
- Shiraz (7 – 9 November): The final stage pushes participants to their limits while offering a spectacular finale to the race.
More Gees for Riders and Fans
Enhancing the thrill of the W2W, Toyota has introduced activations designed to elevate both rider performance and spectator engagement:
Toyota Cruise Sections offer specially designed parts of the route where riders can showcase technical skill and enjoy a refreshing “gear change.” Meanwhile, Luxury Route Tours give invited guests exclusive access to remote vantage points, revealing perspectives of the race that are normally off-limits to spectators.
Recharge, Recover, and Race On
Post-stage recovery is as essential as the race itself, and the FNB Recharge Zone has become a beloved feature of the W2W. This year, Toyota is taking the zone to the next level with two state-of-the-art racing simulators from The Toyota Gaming Engine (TTGE), allowing riders to immerse themselves in Toyota performance in a dynamic, interactive way.
Supporting South African Cycling Talent
Toyota’s commitment to local talent continues through its sponsorship of the Toyota Specialized Team, featuring riders Johan van Zyl, Matt Beers, and Travis Stedman. Adding to this legacy, Imbuko ChemChamp joins Toyota’s cycling portfolio, with Marco Joubert and Tristan Nortje partnering with Lood Goosen and Rudi Koen under the Toyota-branded kit. By supporting homegrown athletes, Toyota is not just backing a race—it’s investing in the future of South African cycling.
Driving Values On and Off the Track
“The FNB Wines2Whales reflects the same values Toyota stands for – reliability, adventure and creating memorable experiences,” says Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors. “Through our partnership, we are proud to support the logistics of the race, enhance the rider experience, and introduce innovative activations that reflect Toyota’s forward-thinking approach to mobility and community engagement.”
With its perfect blend of competitive spirit and social camaraderie, the FNB Wines2Whales remains one of South Africa’s most anticipated sporting events. And with Toyota powering every stage—from the rugged trails to the interactive zones—the race promises an unforgettable experience for riders, spectators, and partners alike.
