Widely regarded as South Africa’s favourite race weekend, the Zwartkops Passion for Speed returns on 30 and 31 January 2026 to mark a proud 25 years of motorsport heritage. What began as part of the Piper Series has grown into a landmark event on the local calendar, regularly drawing competitors and spectators from around the world to Pretoria. While the full international entry list will be confirmed closer to the event, the silver jubilee edition promises something extra special to celebrate a quarter-century of Passion for Speed.
Headlining the programme is the ever-popular Pre-74 International Sports Prototypes, which traditionally attracts a strong overseas contingent alongside the best of South Africa’s Springbok Series machinery. Expect classic Lolas and Chevrons to be joined by mouth-watering prospects such as an international Ferrari and a Can-Am McLaren, taking on local legends including Le Mans-spec Ford GT40s and McLaren M1As. A full field of Lola T70s is also anticipated, with Mk3 Coupes and Spyders ensuring a proper Ford versus Ferrari spectacle.
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Adding to the drama are visiting GT Porsches and thunderous Trans Am V8 touring cars. Many of these machines will also contest the prestigious 45-minute Le Mans Sports & GT Tourist Trophy, another Passion for Speed highlight that regularly showcases Cobras, Daytonas, Lolas and GT40s, often with an international twist.
The Pre-1966 Legends of the 9 Hour Production Cars remain a firm crowd favourite. Expect the big American bruisers – Galaxies, Falcon Thunderbolts, Mustangs, Fairlanes, Impalas, Camaros and more – to deliver the noise, colour and wheel-to-wheel action the event is known for, with smaller capacity classes adding depth to the racing.
Historic single-seater fans will not be disappointed either, with classic Formula Fords, Formula Vees and other significant South African racers on display, and the possibility of Formula Atlantic and rotary-powered Formula South Africa cars adding extra spice. The Evapco HRSA Sprint races, contemporary BMW M Performance Parts Racing, and a host of supporting categories round out a packed on-track schedule.
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Off the circuit, Zwartkops Raceway will once again go all out with demonstrations, displays and a comprehensive fan experience, celebrating iconic Ford versus Ferrari moments and uniquely South African racing machinery. With family-friendly entertainment, pit walks, driver interactions and plenty to see and do, the 2026 Passion for Speed is set to kick off the motorsport year in memorable fashion.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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