For the first time in its history, the rally kicks off on a Saturday, officially launching on 20 March 2027. The annual Show & Shine exhibition takes place right at the start of the event, giving spectators an intimate look at the fleet. From there, the curated route takes drivers through the celebrated roads and hospitality destinations of Franschhoek and the Overberg, before culminating with the traditional Podium Finish at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.
“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.”
Unmatched Rarity and Shared Passion
The sheer exclusivity of the entry list is central to the rally’s prestige, capped strictly at approximately 70 cars and 140 participants. Entrants can expect precision regularity stages, five nights of luxury accommodation, and an intimate, moving museum on public roads. Inspired by legendary endurance rallies, the field features four distinct categories: Classic, Modern Classic, Sports Cars, and Specials/Recreation.
Key partner Scuderia South Africa (Official Ferrari Dealer) leads a distinguished group of supporters, including SCL Travel, SilverCrest Super Car Insurance, Godox SA, InterActive Signs, and BKD Auditors. As Jean Minnaar, Managing Director of Private Clients by Old Mutual, notes: “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.”
Driving Purpose Beyond the Finish Line
Beyond the open-road adrenaline, the underlying significance of the rally lies in its deep charitable impact. The event serves as a major fundraising platform for the Motorsport Legends Benevolent Fund—which provides emergency financial relief to motorsport figures fallen on hard times—and the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA), the leading agency representing individuals with spinal cord injuries and physical disability. Having raised over R300,000 in 2026, organisers aim to exceed that record in 2027, ensuring every kilometre driven makes a lasting difference.
