Seen Here: History. Luxury. African excellence. Saso’s Marquee Experience has made Hollywoodbets Durban July history by becoming the first-ever marquee to win the coveted Best Marquee award in consecutive years. From world-class fashion and unforgettable entertainment to exceptional hospitality, every detail celebrated the creativity, elegance and cultural brilliance that define modern Africa. Photo Credit: Supplied
DURBAN – South Africa’s most glamorous horse racing and lifestyle event has crowned a history-making champion, with Saso’s Marquee Experience becoming the first marquee ever to win the coveted Best Marquee title in consecutive years at the Hollywoodbets Durban July.
Following its inaugural triumph in 2025, the award-winning destination successfully defended its crown in 2026, raising the bar for luxury hospitality, African creativity and experiential entertainment at one of the continent’s most prestigious social and sporting events.
The victory cements Saso’s Marquee Experience as one of the defining attractions of the Hollywoodbets Durban July, setting a new benchmark for immersive guest experiences where fashion, culture, music and premium hospitality converge.
A Celebration of African Luxury
Judges praised Saso’s Marquee Experience for its exceptional interpretation of this year’s Country Allure theme, applauding its seamless fusion of sophisticated design, African elegance, cultural storytelling and world-class hospitality.
Far more than simply an exclusive hospitality venue, the marquee transformed into a multi-sensory celebration of contemporary African excellence, offering guests an unforgettable journey through fashion, entertainment, gastronomy and luxury lifestyle experiences.
Every element—from the décor and culinary offerings to live performances and brand collaborations—was meticulously curated to reflect innovation, creativity and authentic African identity.
MaXhosa Atelier Creates a Landmark Fashion Moment
One of the day’s standout highlights came when MaXhosa Atelier staged its first-ever runway presentation at the Hollywoodbets Durban July.
The exclusive fashion showcase elevated the marquee into a living gallery of African craftsmanship, with internationally acclaimed designer Laduma Ngxokolo presenting a collection that celebrated heritage, innovation and luxury design.
Adding to the spectacle was a surprise appearance by entertainer Robot Boii, whose energetic performance injected another memorable moment into an already spectacular afternoon.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Ngxokolo said the partnership represented far more than a fashion show.
“Partnering with Saso’s Marquee Experience gave us an opportunity to present in an environment that celebrates excellence, creativity and African luxury at the highest level. It was more than showcasing a collection—it was about creating an experience where fashion, culture and storytelling could exist as one.”
Music, Fine Dining and Unmatched Hospitality
Entertainment remained central to the award-winning experience.
Media personality Somizi hosted the event as master of ceremonies, while a stellar lineup featuring Kabza De Small, K.O., Sykes and several of South Africa’s leading performers ensured guests remained immersed in an atmosphere of celebration throughout the day.
Guests were also treated to the moving Stella Artois Moment, where Zawadi Yamungu delivered a powerful performance celebrating African identity and cultural storytelling.
On the culinary front, celebrated Chef Thuladu, together with Rajah, Knorr and Robertsons, curated an impressive Harvest Table that showcased bold South African flavours through a shared dining experience inspired by community and abundance.
Luxury hospitality was further elevated through premium guest experiences, including an exclusive Moët & Chandon celebration that marked another successful year for the marquee.
Partnerships That Defined Excellence
The award-winning experience was made possible through collaborations with some of South Africa’s and the world’s most recognisable premium brands.
Partners including MaXhosa Africa, Moët & Chandon, Stella Artois, Hennessy, Mercedes-Benz, Rajah, Knorr, Robertsons, Red Bull, VEEV and LDK Jewels contributed to creating a destination that reflected sophistication, innovation and luxury at every level.
Setting a New Standard
For Lusaso “Saso” Ngcobo, the consecutive victory represents more than industry recognition—it reflects the collective passion behind every aspect of the experience.
“This recognition means so much because it reflects the passion and dedication of everyone who brought this vision to life. To become the first marquee to win Best Marquee in consecutive years is an incredible honour. Every partner, artist, designer and team member contributed to creating something truly special.”
Redefining South Africa’s Luxury Event Landscape
The Hollywoodbets Durban July has evolved beyond horse racing into one of Africa’s most influential lifestyle showcases, where fashion, entertainment, hospitality and luxury brands compete to deliver unforgettable experiences.
Saso’s Marquee Experience has now firmly established itself at the forefront of that evolution.
By seamlessly blending African creativity with international standards of luxury hospitality, the marquee has demonstrated how local culture, premium experiences and innovative storytelling can create an event that resonates long after the final race has been run.
Its back-to-back Best Marquee victories not only make history but also raise expectations for what guests can expect from South Africa’s premier lifestyle event in the years ahead.
As another spectacular edition of the Hollywoodbets Durban July draws to a close, Saso’s Marquee Experience has once again proven that when excellence, culture and creativity come together, history is not simply remembered—it is created.
