Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has reaffirmed its dedication to the spirit of endurance, adventure, and excellence by renewing its partnership with the Absa Cape Epic for an additional three years. This continued collaboration underscores TSAM’s unwavering support for what is widely regarded as the world’s premier mountain bike stage race — a demanding and prestigious event that reflects Toyota’s passion for off-road performance and human achievement.
“The Absa Cape Epic’s legendary and demanding routes through the Western Cape perfectly reflect Toyota’s passion for off-road adventure,” said Glenn Crompton, Vice President for Marketing at TSAM. “We’re proud to uphold our commitment to excellence in every facet of this extraordinary event and continue our sponsorship as the official vehicle and route partner.”
Driving the Epic Experience
As the Official Vehicle Partner, TSAM has been instrumental in the success of the Absa Cape Epic. Over the past three years, its rugged and reliable fleet has provided critical logistical support — from transporting race officials and medical teams to assisting media crews and event staff across the unforgiving terrain. This essential behind-the-scenes role ensures that every race day runs like clockwork, no matter how challenging the conditions.
Jonathan Meintjes, Global Director of the Epic Series, added: “We are incredibly proud to continue our journey with Toyota South Africa – a partner whose values so naturally align with the spirit of the Absa Cape Epic. From rugged on-course support to elevating the spectator and rider experience, Toyota’s unwavering commitment has added immense value. This renewed partnership through to 2028 is a powerful endorsement of the Epic Series, and we look forward to continuing to innovate, challenge limits, and inspire together.”
Elevating the Luxury Route Tour
Beyond the race action, TSAM enhances the event’s premium offering through its support of the exclusive Absa Cape Epic Luxury Route Tours. Using the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser, guests are taken on unforgettable journeys to breathtaking vantage points along the route. These immersive excursions offer front-row access to the drama of the race, allowing guests to witness elite athletes in action against the dramatic backdrop of the Western Cape’s mountain passes and open wilderness.
A Champion of Inclusivity: Toyota Mixed Category
Toyota’s dedication to diversity and unity is reflected in its ongoing sponsorship of the Toyota Mixed category — a unique class that challenges co-ed teams to conquer the toughest terrain together. Competitors in this category proudly wear the green Ciovita leader jerseys, symbolising both their tenacity and Toyota’s steadfast commitment to equality in endurance sport.
Embracing the Epic Challenge: Toyota Tough Sections
Among the most celebrated features of the Absa Cape Epic are the infamous Toyota Tough Sections. These brutal, physically demanding stretches of the course have become legendary, pushing riders to their mental and physical limits. Branded as symbols of strength and resilience, these sections are a fitting tribute to Toyota’s own engineering philosophy — built tough, no matter the challenge.
Engaging the Fans: Toyota Urban Trax
For fans and families, Toyota delivers hands-on excitement through Toyota Urban Trax — an interactive 4×4 experience that allows spectators to test Toyota vehicles on purpose-built off-road tracks. It’s an opportunity for onlookers to connect with the brand in a thrilling and tangible way, while discovering the same all-terrain capabilities that support the race itself.
Championing Performance and Purpose
TSAM’s support has been a catalyst for incredible success stories on the trail. Over the past three years, TSAM-backed teams have made an indelible mark on the podium and in the hearts of fans.
- Matt Beers of Toyota Specialized has become a standout figure, clinching three Overall wins in his nine-year Absa Cape Epic career.
- Toyota Development and Songo | Kolisi Foundation teams have made significant strides, not only in competition but also in raising funds for cycling and education initiatives via Songo.info.
- In 2025, Johan van Zyl and Travis Stedman (Toyota Specialized men’s team) and Cherise Willeit and Ila Stow (Songo | Kolisi Foundation) both took second place in the fiercely contested Absa African jersey rankings.
- The Toyota Specialized Women’s team, including Annika Langvad and Sofia Gomez Villafane, powered to victory in the Aramex UCI Women’s category.
- Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Samantha Sanders and Riaan Weideman continued their impressive form, securing second place overall in the Toyota Mixed Category for a third consecutive year.
Looking to the Future
With TSAM now confirmed as a key partner of the Absa Cape Epic until at least 2028, the brand continues to lead the way in both performance and purpose. From supporting elite athletes to engaging local communities and fans, Toyota’s commitment goes far beyond branding — it’s about inspiring human movement, conquering the impossible, and driving the Epic journey forward.
Here’s to more trails, more triumphs, and more unforgettable Toyota-powered moments still to come.
