From 15 to 22 March 2026, elite riders and passionate amateurs will face eight days of brutal climbs, technical descents and unforgiving terrain in South Africa’s Western Cape.

A defining feature of the event remains the Toyota Tough sections, designed to challenge even the strongest riders and often decisive in shaping stage outcomes. Toyota’s support fleet, led by the Land Cruiser Prado, will traverse remote passes and rugged trails to ensure the race runs seamlessly, while also showcasing the vehicle’s legendary off-road capability.

At the centre of Toyota’s presence are its riders. The Toyota Specialized Inbuko team features three-time champion Matt Beers alongside Tristan Nortje, while Marco Joubert and Travis Stedman form a second experienced pairing with several other riders in Toyota colours.

In the women’s field, Candice Lill, backed by Rola Toyota, partners Swiss world champion Alessandra Keller in the Thömus Maxon Sabi-Sabi team. The Toyota Gazoo Racing mixed team of Sarah Maré (Hill) and Riaan Weideman will aim for podium success, with Toyota once again sponsoring the mixed category and its green leader jersey.

Absa’s role extends beyond sponsorship. For two decades, the bank has been integral to the race’s identity and continues to field Team Absa, whose riders train intensively for the event and embody the values of resilience and teamwork that define the Cape Epic.

As Glenn Crompton, Vice President: Marketing at TSAM, explains: “Our continued partnership with the Absa Cape Epic reflects Toyota’s belief in pushing boundaries and embracing challenges. For the fourth year running, Toyota is proud to support a race that demands the very best from riders and vehicles alike.”