Marking the continuation of the partnership that has driven equestrian sport forward in South Africa over the last four years, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) officially launched the 2026 Toyota Equestrian Series at the prestigious Kyalami Park Club (KPC).
Over the past four years, the partnership has significantly enhanced the profile of the sport, broadened its spectator base, and contributed to increased participation across multiple equestrian disciplines.
The launch, on February 18, unveiled an exciting 2026 competition calendar, alongside an enhanced prize offering designed to further elevate participation and spectator engagement.
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TSAM marketing vice president Glenn Crompton highlighted Toyota’s enthusiasm for the season ahead.
“As we kickstart the fifth year of our partnership with Kyalami Park Club, we look forward to leveraging what has become a cornerstone of our commitment to advancing equestrian sport in South Africa.
“As a family-oriented brand, we are honoured to welcome riders, supporters, and communities from across the country to the 2026 equestrian season. The enhanced prize purse underscores our confidence in the growing stature of the series and our belief in the remarkable depth of local talent. We look forward to witnessing the pursuit of excellence that defines this competition.”
The showjumping season has been branded the ultimate 4×4 series powered by Toyota, and will feature four premier events, including the Toyota Easter Festival from March 28 to April 6, the Toyota Midrand World Cup Qualifier from May 28 to 31, the Toyota SA Showjumping Championships from July 29 to August 2, and the 2026 Toyota SA Derby from October 1 to 5. At the conclusion of the four-event series, the overall showjumping champion will drive off in a new Toyota Hilux D/C Legend.
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The 2026 Toyota South African Dressage Championships especially will attract only the very best horse and rider combinations countrywide, in what promises to be a fiercely contested competition. A draw will also take place, where the winner will be awarded a new Toyota Starlet Cross.
KPC event director Heather Mpofu said: “Entering our fifth year of partnership with Toyota is a significant milestone. Their continued investment in our sport and our community enables us to deliver world-class events that showcase the very best of South African equestrian talent.
Each year, the series grows in scale, impact, and reach, and we are proud to work alongside a partner that shares our vision for excellence.”
KPC is proud to continue its meaningful work with the KPC Academy, launched earlier this year. “The academy has 15 riders who, in addition to comprehensive entry cover, will also enjoy a multitude of learning opportunities spanning the sport of equestrian, including training with the professional athletes, grooming, feeding, and keeping a horse in supreme show condition.
“We will guide the riders on their show preparation, administration, and finances. Our objective is to grow great riders and build better people, because equestrian is a career, not just a hobby.”
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