Hollywoodbets Greenlights New Era for KZN Racing with Gold Circle Takeover

Big news for South African horse racing: Hollywoodbets has officially taken over Gold Circle. The deal got final approval from the KwaZulu-Natal Economic Regulatory Authority (KZNERA) on 1 May 2025, just in time for the start of the 2025 Champions Season.

This is more than just a business deal. It’s a game-changer for racing in KwaZulu-Natal and could shake up the sport across the country.

One Stable, Two Powerhouses

With this acquisition, both KwaZulu-Natal and Cape Town’s horse racing operations fall under the same banner – Hollywoodbets. The merger not only consolidates regional efforts but signals a long-term vision to modernize and expand the reach of South African racing.

Hollywoodbets is no stranger to the sport, as the title sponsor of the famous Hollywoodbets Durban July, and its presence in Cape Town has already grown substantially in recent years. The group is well-known for backing major sports initiatives, including partnerships with teams like the Dolphins cricket side.

But this move goes far beyond sponsorships. It’s a strategic rescue mission, and a R500 million one at that.

Big Investment, Bigger Vision

Hollywoodbets’ multi-million-rand investment package is designed to do more than plug holes, it’s meant to transform. The revitalisation effort will upgrade important infrastructure across the province, including the legendary Greyville Racecourse and the Summerveld Training Centre.

Key upgrades already underway include:

• Lighting upgrades at Greyville, opening the door for more day-night racing.

• A full revamp of the Greyville Polytrack.

• Major improvements at Summerveld Training Centre, including new stables, better roads, and upgraded grooms’ quarters.

These updates will help modernise the sport and protect the jobs of around 6,000 people linked to the local racing industry.

A Future Built on Growth

For Hollywoodbets CEO Suren Rampersadh, the acquisition goes beyond business, it’s about building a lasting legacy in South African horse racing. He stressed that Hollywoodbets sees itself as a custodian of the sport, with a responsibility to help it thrive in a modern, competitive landscape. The company wants to breathe new life into racing, making it more inclusive, more exciting, and more relevant to a global audience.

As part of this push, Hollywoodbets is looking to overhaul the local racing calendar, increase prize money, and introduce fresh incentives to encourage racehorse ownership. These moves are key to attracting new talent, growing field sizes, and ultimately boosting sports betting turnover, the lifeblood of any thriving racing industry.

Countdown to Champions Season

With final approval secured and boots already on the ground, all eyes now turn to the 2025 Champions Season. Launching this Saturday at Hollywoodbets Greyville, the three-month spectacle will culminate in the much-anticipated 129th Hollywoodbets Durban July, scheduled for 5 July 2025.

It’s a new dawn for racing in KZN, and it’s being powered by purple.