Toyota South Africa gears up for the Absa Cape Epic 2025
3rd year partnership of the toughest Mountain Bike (MTB) race
Toyota South Africa is ready to hit the dirt as the official vehicle and route partner of the Absa Cape Epic 2025, the most televised mountain bike race in the world. From 16 to 23 March 2025, elite mountain bikers and serious amateurs alike will push their limits across rugged terrain in a race that’s as gruelling as it is breathtaking.
The Absa Cape Epic kicks off with a high-octane prologue on day one, followed by seven demanding stages across seven days. Recognised by the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) as hors catégorie – “beyond categorization” – the race is a must for every professional rider’s calendar. With the return of the Toyota Tough sections, Toyota is forging trails across this gruelling terrain, putting riders to the test with a new challenge in each stage.
Toyota’s involvement in the Absa Cape Epic goes beyond logistics and support – it’s also about putting the best riders on the toughest trails. This year’s lineup promises an exciting blend of experience, talent and determination.
Outride-Toyota-Songo Team:
Matt Beers, a three-time Absa Cape Epic champion, has been part of the Toyota Specialized team since its inception. He is paired with Keegan Swenson, a top US mountain biker who will ride alongside Matt in Toyota insignia.
Toyota Specialized (Men) Team:
After an early exit last year due to his partner’s illness, Johan van Zyl is back with a vengeance, determined to cross the finish line. The newest addition to the team, Travis Stedman, brings loads of global experience mixed with local grit to his Absa Cape Epic debut in 2025.
Toyota Specialized (Women) Team:
Annika Langvad, a six-time World Champion, joins forces with Sofia Gomez Villafane, winner of the 2022 Absa Cape Epic. Together, they will be a force to be reckoned with in 2025.
Songo-Kolisi Foundation Team:
Making their debut at the 2025 Absa Cape Epic, the Songo-Kolisi Foundation Team will proudly ride in Toyota-branded kits. Cherise Willeit teams up with Ila Stow – both with three Absa Cape Epics under their belt. Their mission? To inspire and compete with heart and determination.
Toyota Gazoo Racing Mixed Team:
The Toyota Gazoo Racing mixed team, made up of Riaan Weideman and Samantha Sanders, are no strangers to the Absa Cape Epic. In 2023 they placed 2nd in the mixed category, with 2024 being their year for glory, taking the win and receiving the Green Leader Jersey.
Where endurance meets innovation
The Absa Cape Epic 2025 is a celebration of toughness, resilience and adventure – values that Toyota knows well.
Like Glenn Crompton, Vice President: Marketing, said:
“I’m incredibly proud that for the past three years, Toyota South Africa has been the official vehicle and route partner of the Absa Cape Epic. As a team, we couldn’t be prouder of what we've accomplished together, and we wish all the riders luck as they embark on the toughest mountain bike challenge.”
Whether transporting guests to remote viewpoints, providing vehicles for event support, or helping riders through the toughest parts of the course, Toyota is there to ensure every moment of this race is unforgettable. Get ready for a race like no other. See you on the trail.
