Durban July 2026 - Trainer Justin Snaith targeting sixth Durban July win

Simon Lewis

Editor

Last updated: 27 Jun 2026

Simon Lewis 27 Jun 2026

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Trainer Justin Snaith has won five Durban July’s and has five chances to claim number six in 2026.
The 130th running of Africa’s biggest horse race will be contested by 18 horses.
This year’s Durban July offers a R10-million purse for the big race on 4 July, 2026.

Expired

The Durban July (Getty Images).

Justin Snaith Holds A Powerful Hand

Justin Snaith once again has a major presence in the Durban July, with his 2026 team giving him several ways into the race. The stable’s challenge is headed by Legal Counsel, Wish List, Regulation, Native Ruler and Note To Self, making Snaith one of the key trainers in this year’s contest.

Legal Counsel brings proven top-level quality. He carries top weight, but that is a reflection of his class, having finished narrowly second in the Gold Challenge and also run second in the Cape Town Met. From draw five, he should have every chance to find a workable position.

Wist List adds to Snaith’s winning chances

Wish List is another fascinating runner. She is one of five female runners in this year’s field, and her draw in seven gives her a fair platform. Andrew Fortune takes the ride, adding another layer of experience and personality to her challenge.

Regulation is perhaps the most intriguing of the Snaith runners. He only just made the final field and is officially 1kg under sufferance, but he drew beautifully in gate two and has Zac Lloyd aboard. Native Ruler and Note To Self add further depth to a stable team that looks built for every possible race shape.

Snaith has already won the Durban July five times. With this many live runners, he has another serious opportunity to add to that record.