All bets are on! The final field for this year’s Durban July has been announced

The wait is over…the final field for the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2026 has officially been announced. As always, Durban’s biggest day on the sporting and social calendar is shaping up to deliver glamour and serious betting buzz.

Who to watch?

The bookmaker’s early favourite for the main race is STAR MAJOR, who has landed a favourable draw in barrier 15. Trained by James Crawford and ridden by French jockey Mickaëlle Michel, the colt looks to be in good form for this year’s race.

But in true July fashion, nothing is straightforward.

REGULATION, trained by Justin Snaith and partnered with Australian star Zac Lloyd, has also attracted plenty of attention. Breaking from draw 2, carrying a light weight and backed by one of the most successful trainers in Durban July history, this horse has the ingredients of a serious contender.

Then there’s the ever-dangerous LEGAL COUNSEL, another Snaith runner, and NATIVE RULER, who will need to overcome the widest draw in 18, which is a tough ask in a race of this calibre.

The final field 

With seasoned trainers, international jockeys and tightly matched contenders, the 2200m handicap once again promises tactical riding, split-second decisions and late-race surprises. Here’s who’s contending:

1. Hazy Dazy – C. Spies (T. Mayhew) – Draw 1 | 54.5kg
2. Regulation – J. Snaith (Z. Lloyd) – Draw 2 | 52kg
3. Note To Self – J. Snaith (R. Fourie) – Draw 3 | 55kg
4. Zeitz – A. Nel (S. Moodley) – Draw 4 | 53kg
5. Isivivane – P. Muscutt (S. Veale) – Draw 5 | 52kg
6. King Pelles – G. van Zyl (C. Schofield) – Draw 6 | 59kg
7. Wish List – J. Snaith (A. Fortune) – Draw 7 | 54.5kg
8. Legal Counsel – J. Snaith (C. Murray) – Draw 8 | 62kg
9. Aladdin’s Lamp – Mike & Mathew de Kock (Calvin Habib) — Draw: 9 | Weight: 53kg
10. I Salute You – P. Muscutt (M. du Plessis) – Draw 10 | 54.5kg
11. Viva’s Liberte – C. Bass (C. Zackey) – Draw 11 | 53kg
12. The Ultimate King – T. Peter (K. Matsunyane) – Draw 12 | 56.5kg
13. Mocha Blend – F. Robinson (T. Godden) – Draw 13 | 56.5kg
14. Gladatorian – S. Ferrie (M. Yeni) – Draw 14 | 61.5kg
15. Star Major – J. Crawford (M. Michel) – Draw 15 | 57kg
16. Olivia’s Way – R. Magner (J.P. van der Merwe) – Draw 16 | 55kg
17. Minogue – C. & T. Dawson (G. Lerena) – Draw 17 | 56kg
18. Native Ruler – J. Snaith (K. de Melo) – Draw 18 | 58.5kg

Reserve runners

1. Choisaanada – Erico Verdonese (RESERVE 1) — Weight: 58.5kg
2. Curious Girl – Mike & Mathew de Kock (RESERVE 2) — Weight: 52kg

What you need to know

• Event: Hollywoodbets Durban July 2026
• Date: Saturday, 4 July 2026
• Venue: Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, Durban
• Tickets: From R280 via Ticketpro 
• Theme: Country Allure

Beyond the racing, you can expect a full festival atmosphere including live entertainment on the Pulse Big Stage featuring Zakes Bantwini, Mi Casa, Will Linley, Tamara Dey and more!

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