The Cape 1000 Roars Back - South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive Returns in March 2027

The sixth edition of The Cape 1000, South Africa’s most breathtaking and thrilling grand touring regularity rally, proudly brought to you by Private Clients by Old Mutual, is set to return from 20 to 25 March 2027. Building on the success of its first five editions, the event continues to evolve while staying true to the spirit that has made it one of the country’s premier automotive and lifestyle experiences.

Every year the routes are refined to showcase different facets of the picturesque Western Cape. For the first time, The Cape 1000 will start on a Saturday. The annual Show & Shine will take place at the start of the event, after which the route will take in the celebrated roads and hospitality destinations of Franschhoek and the Overberg before culminating with the traditional Podium Finish at the V&A Waterfront.

Event growth and experience

“The Cape 1000 has grown from strength to strength since its launch in 2022,” says Event Director Vanessa Crichton. “After five outstanding editions that have delivered extraordinary cars, unforgettable scenery and deep camaraderie, we are excited to elevate the experience further in 2027. The new Saturday start will open the event even more to the public, while the core remains what our participants love most – exceptional vehicles on South Africa’s most beautiful roads, world-class hospitality and friendships that last a lifetime. The engines are already warming.”

“Private Clients by Old Mutual is proud to continue our partnership with The Cape 1000,” says Jean Minnaar, Managing Director of Private Clients by Old Mutual. “This event embodies the spirit of excellence, passion and shared experiences that we value. Supporting another outstanding edition allows us to celebrate South Africa’s extraordinary scenery, exceptional cars and the remarkable community that comes together each year.”

Entry field and rally categories

The exclusive entry field is capped at approximately 70 cars (140 participants). This regularity rally, inspired by legendary endurance events from around the world, features four categories: Classic, Modern Classic, Sports Cars and Specials/Recreation. The carefully curated mix of vintage, classic and modern vehicles is what makes The Cape 1000 uniquely special.

The Cape 1000 is supported by Scuderia South Africa (Official Ferrari Dealer) as a key partner. Additional partners include SCL Travel, SilverCrest Super Car Insurance, Godox SA, InterActive Signs and BKD Auditors.

Entrants can expect a truly unforgettable experience characterised by spectacular scenery, five nights of world-class accommodation, precision regularity stages and the unparalleled camaraderie that has become the hallmark of the event.

Beneficiaries and 2027 outlook

The beneficiaries of the event remain the Motorsport Legends Benevolent Fund – which provides emergency financial relief to motorsport personalities who have fallen on hard times – and the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA), the leading agency representing persons with spinal cord injury and physical disability. In 2026 the rally raised more than R300 000 for these causes, and organisers aim to exceed that figure in 2027.

We are truly excited to welcome both returning enthusiasts and first-time participants to what promises to be the most memorable Cape 1000 yet. With spectacular cars, some of the world’s most beautiful roads, world-class hospitality and the unique camaraderie that has become the hallmark of this event, March 2027 is set to deliver another unforgettable experience.

For more information or to enquire about sponsorship packages, visit www.cape1000.com @thecape1000 | #Cape1000