The Cape 1000, South Africa’s premier grand touring regularity rally, is set to return for its sixth edition from 20 to 25 March 2027. Proudly brought to the country by Private Clients by Old Mutual, this weeklong event continues to elevate the standard for luxury motoring, high-octane camaraderie, and scenic travel across the Western Cape. Building on five outstanding editions, the 2027 running promises an elevated experience that weaves together automotive history, world-class hospitality, and meaningful philanthropic action.
Starting the Journey in Historic Franschhoek
For the first time in its history, the rally kicks off on a Saturday, officially launching on 20 March 2027 in the picturesque town of Franschhoek. Opening day begins right in the heart of this valley with the annual Show & Shine exhibition, giving spectators an intimate look at the fleet. From Franschhoek, the curated route takes drivers through celebrated winelands, across the mountain passes of the Overberg, and down to the coast for 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. “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.”
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. Having raised over R300,000 in 2026, organisers aim to exceed that record in 2027, ensuring every kilometre driven makes a lasting difference.
