Cyclists head to city for the new-look Tour Durban

This Sunday, Durban’s streets will be the backdrop for a high-speed spectacle as the annual Tour Durban returns, bringing a fresh format. Thousands of cyclists are expected to descend on Durban North for one of the city’s most popular road races, with entries still pouring in from across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.

This year’s field is looking incredibly competitive with some of South Africa’s top riders lining up, including defending contender Josh Rheeders, who will be looking to go one better after narrowly missing out last year. He’s set to face tough competition from competitors like Daniyal Matthews, Scott Blount and rising KZN talent David Shelly. 

Adding to the excitement, Cycling South Africa is backing the event with an unofficial National Inter-Club Challenge, giving teams across the country a chance to battle it out for bragging rights.

There are lots of local KZN teams in the mix, but Team Siata, who have been a prominent force at the event, are favoured to take the team title with a young squad that includes Nyakallo Sekhethela, Muhammad Fortune, Ntsako Sarila, ZamaJibhela Mazibuko and eSwatini junior national champion Sivuyile Gulwako. 

What’s new this year?

The 2026 race introduces a revamped format, making it easier than ever to catch the action. The elite races will include a lap-based format, designed to bring high-speed racing closer to spectators. Look out for:

• 6am: KZN Cycling Schools Road Series Final
• 6.30am: Recreational Ride (perfect for social cyclists)
• From 10.30am: aQuellé Invitation Race and CSA National Inter-Club Challenge

Race routes for 2026

The route for the first two events is predominantly a 42km lap on the M4 / Ruth First Highway / Leo Boyd Highway between Moses Mabhida and Umdloti, with a loop into Sandile Thusi Road and then Mashabalala Yengwa Avenue (northbound) to Durban Country Club. 

The 100km Invitation Race and Inter-Club Challenge takes riders from Moses Mabhida, along the M4 to the M41 to Ridgeside Drive and back for two 26km laps, and then four short, exciting 12km laps between Moses Mabhida and Swapo Road.

Full route details: 

• https://tourdurban.co.za/100km/  
• https://tourdurban.co.za/42km/ 

Race registration will take place at Cycle Lab in Cornubia Mall on Friday and Saturday. No late entries accepted on Sunday.

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