Durban July - New date for Durban July
South Africa's biggest horse racing event to take place behind closed doors on 25 July
Do It Again on his way to his second Durban July title in as many years in 2019 (Getty Images)
South Africa's biggest horse racing event, The Durban July, has been moved from its original date of 4 July to 25 July.
The Durban July, which usually sees the world of fashion meet horse racing on the first Saturday of July, will now be a broadcast-only event due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In level 3 of the South African lockdown, non-contact sports are allowed to take place, but without spectators.
Following the decision by government to move down to level 3 of the lockdown, The Durban July's organiser, Gold Circle, announced that the new date for the prestigious race day will now be 25 July 2020.
"Gold Circle, together with the ongoing support of the company's valued sponsor Vodacom, is fully committed to running the 2020 Vodacom Durban July. Sadly, given the reality of the present circumstances, the race meeting will be staged behind closed doors and without spectators," Gold Circle CEO Michel Nairac said, according to News24.
The Durban July is held annually at the Greyville Racecourse in Durban. The inaugural meeting took place in 1897. Justin Snaith's Do It Again, ridden by Richard Fourie, won The Durban July in 2019, becoming only the fifth horse in history to win back-to-back The Durban July races.
Durban July Betting Odds
The early money is on Hawwaam to win the Durban July but close on his heels is Rainbow Bridge. Vardy isn't far behind either so this could be a race too tight to call. 2018 & 2019 winner, Do It Again, is currently priced at 11.00.
Odds correct as of 4 June 2020
Durban July FAQ
When is the 2020 Durban July?
The 2020 Durban July will take place on 25 July 2020.
What is the 2020 Durban July theme?
The 2020 Durban July theme is Butterflies.
Where is the 2020 Durban July?
The 2020 Durban July will be held at Greyville Racecourse in Durban, South Africa.
Who is the favourite to win the 2020 Durban July?
The bookmakers currently (4 June 2020) have Hawwaam as the favourite at 6.00.
Who won the 2019 Durban July?
The 2019 Durban July was won by Do It Again. Do It Again will attempt to go for three in a row in 2020 after winning in 2018 as well.
Where can I live stream the Durban July?
There are many online bookmakers who offer the Durban July on live stream including bet365. YouTube has also gotten in on the act and will live stream the days events.
