Can Justin Snaith achieve a historic fourth win at World Sports Betting Cape Town Met 2026?
Posing with Eight-on-Eighteen, last year's Cape Town Met winner is Kendall Leigh Cupido dressed by Veon Wentzel of Haus Of Vjorn, one of nine emerging designers that will be showcasing their collections as part of the fashion show at this year's event.
Image: Ian Landsberg
Excitement is mounting to see whether trainer Justin Snaith, a powerhouse of South African horse racing, can achieve an unprecedented fourth consecutive World Sports Betting Cape Town Met victory. With champions like Jet Dark (2023), Double Superlative (2024), and Eight on Eighteen (2025) having mastered the racetrack, the anticipation surrounding Eight on Eighteen’s attempt to defend his crown as a four-year-old adds another layer of intrigue to the horseracing spectacle.
As more than 150 horses prepare to compete, spectators can expect high stakes and memorable finishes at every turn. Whether you're a die-hard racing fan or a casual observer, the atmosphere promises to be electric, enhancing the experience for every attendee.
On 31 January 2026, Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse is set to host one of the most anticipated events on the South African sporting calendar. The occasion not only celebrates the mesmerizing sport of horse racing but embodies the glamour, culture, and vibrant lifestyle that Cape Town is known for.
This year’s theme, Symphony of Style, invites guests to immerse themselves in a creative realm where the adrenaline of the race meets the artistry of fashion. In a city renowned for its stylish flair, attendees are encouraged to express their individuality through clothing that ranges from dramatic couture to chic minimalism. As Donovan Everitt, COO of Race Coast Western Cape, puts it: “This theme is not just a label; it's an invitation to self-expression.”
Kendall Leigh Cupido with Eight on Eighteen winner of last year's World Sports Betting Met.
Image: Ian Landsberg
With 12 competitive races set to thrill the audience, highlights include the prestigious Maine Chance Farms Majorca Stakes (1600m) and the flagship World Sports Betting Cape Town Met (2000) - both Grade 1 races central to the day’s festivities.
“We’re not only focusing on the spectacle of racing. The World Sports Betting Cape Town Met is a defining moment in the national sporting calendar,” said Ryno Du Plessis, COO of World Sports Betting. Their commitment extends beyond sponsorship, focusing on community initiatives like the Grooms Initiative, which has positively impacted the livelihoods of those working behind the scenes. With over R5 million contributed, the Met stands as a collective celebration of the sport and the relentless dedication of its people.