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The 2025 World Sports Betting Cape Town MET, hosted by Cape Racing, is fast approaching, igniting excitement and anticipation. Taking place on January 25th at the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse, this year’s event promises to be the fashion highlight of the season, seamlessly blending the thrill of horseracing with an extraordinary showcase of style and creativity.

Tied to the fast-paced energy of the raceday, the World Sports Betting Cape Town MET’s fashion showcase, inspired by the daring theme ‘Couture Unleashed,’ will celebrate South Africa’s rich talent and diverse design perspectives. Curated by the renowned Gavin Rajah, the showcase will feature 12 designers, each pushing the boundaries of innovation and craftsmanship to deliver exquisite collections.

The ‘Couture Unleashed’ theme invites limitless possibilities in fashion, merging avant-garde artistry with timeless elegance. Guests can expect intricate embellishments, luxurious fabrics, and bold silhouettes that capture the essence of South Africa’s diverse spirit. Gavin Rajah, known for his mastery of haute couture, has carefully curated this year’s showcase to highlight South Africa’s incredible fashion scene. With a reputation for blending opulent detailing with exceptional artistry, Gavin’s involvement promises to elevate the runway experience, making ‘Couture Unleashed’ a truly spectacular celebration of fashion.

The designers featured in this year’s fashion showcase include:

  • Mzukisi Mbane: A master storyteller through his bold prints and powerful narratives, Mzukisi brings Afrocentric pride into every creation, merging contemporary design with cultural heritage.
  • Craig Port, Kim Govaars & Partner: This dynamic trio offers modern sophistication through clean lines, versatile tailoring, and a dash of urban flair.
  • Gavin Rajah: Known for his haute couture expertise, Gavin’s collection will feature opulence and avant-garde detailing, setting the stage for a dramatic display of fashion.
  • Thula Sindi: With a refined, timeless aesthetic, Thula’s creations epitomize elegance and sophistication.
  • Sipho Mbuto: Pushing the boundaries of design, Sipho’s collection promises to explore bold, structural forms with innovative movement.
  • Stephen van Eeden: Known for blending romance and drama, Stephen’s collection will evoke glamour, reminiscent of red-carpet fantasy.
  • Ramo Jozsy: Expect cutting-edge designs with fearless, avant-garde silhouettes and experimental fashion.
  • Fikile Sokhulu: Fikile’s ethereal femininity shines through delicate details, flowing fabrics, and modern romantic twists.
  • Siphosihle Masango: Bold colors and striking textures define Siphosihle’s collection, celebrating individuality and creativity.
  • Cindy Bam: Renowned for her bridal and evening couture, Cindy’s intricate craftsmanship will bring timeless elegance to the runway.

The World Sports Betting Cape Town MET marks the 5th raceday in the Cape Racing Summer Festival of Racing, an exhilarating series of eight premier events running from November 2024 to March 2025. 

Now in its 163rd year, the iconic event promises an exhilarating day of racing including three Grade 1 feature races: The World Sports Betting Cape Town MET, the Maine Chance Farms Majorca Stakes, and the HKJC World Pool Cape Flying Championship. The World Sports Betting Cape Town MET, positioned as the eighth race on a packed 12-race programme, will see 16 of the country’s finest thoroughbreds competing for an impressive R5 million stake -more than double the R2 million prize offered in 2024 for the same race.

Donovan Everitt, Chief Operating Officer of Cape Racing, says, “The World Sports Betting Cape Town MET is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated racedays on the Cape Racing calendar and an event you simply can’t miss. It perfectly combines the thrill of world-class racing, the elegance of high fashion, and the vibrant energy of live entertainment, creating an atmosphere like no other. We’re excited to host this iconic day at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, a venue that embodies the rich heritage and excitement of South African racing. Whether you’re a loyal fan or a first-time visitor, we can’t wait to welcome you to a day filled with unforgettable moments.”

Beyond the fashion spectacular of the day, the event will also feature a dazzling daytime entertainment line-up, including performances by Craig Lucas, Jarrad Ricketts, iconic drag superstars Vida Fantabisher, Manila von Teez, Kat Gilardi and RiRi Rouge, and more.

The excitement continues after the races at the 2025 World Sports Betting Cape Town MET After Party, brought to you by Heineken. The star-studded celebration will be headlined by Grammy Award-winning Zakes Bantwini, with powerhouse performances by DJ Zinhle, international sensations Neon Dreams, and the electrifying GoodLuck

Tickets for the World Sports Betting Cape Town MET are still available via Quicket, with limited General Access and Cruz Racing Pavilion tickets still available.

Secure your spot at South Africa’s most glamorous horseracing and fashion event of the year. There will not be tickets for sale at the gate.