In a landmark collaboration set to redefine the Hollywoodbets Durban July experience, Makubenjalo, Martell and OMODA have joined forces to create one of the most anticipated luxury lifestyle destinations at this year’s event.
Three iconic brands. One extraordinary vision.
Building on their standout presence at last year’s Durban July, Makubenjalo returns in partnership with OMODA and Martell with even greater ambition, unveiling an elevated marquee experience that fuses style, culture, innovation and modern luxury. Once again joined by one of the world’s most celebrated cognac houses as an official partner, the trio is poised to deliver a destination that goes beyond race-day viewing to offer a fully immersive lifestyle experience.
The 2026 theme, Country Allure, imagines a world where heritage, craftsmanship and contemporary sophistication exist in perfect harmony. Drawing inspiration from the quiet elegance of the countryside and the polish of modern luxury, the Makubenjalo, Martell and OMODA collaboration will celebrate authenticity, self-expression and timeless style through a distinctly South African lens.
Before the glamour of race day takes centre stage, the journey officially begins with Njalo’s Durban July Launch event on Friday, 26 June 2026.
This exclusive launch will bring together South Africa’s leading tastemakers, creatives, media personalities and cultural influencers for an evening where luxury, entertainment and hospitality converge. Set against the backdrop of an elegant seated dinner, guests will be treated to curated dining experiences, premium hospitality and a programme featuring some of the country’s most celebrated musical performers and DJs.
Designed to immerse guests in the spirit of the theme long before race day, the evening will offer a first glimpse of the Njalo’s VIP marquee experience set to debut at Hollywoodbets Durban July. It is here that the narrative of Country Allure, as interpreted by Makubenjalo, Martell and OMODA, begins to unfold.
Makubenjalo: From Soweto Institution to Durban July Destination
Makubenjalo Restaurant & Pub – affectionately known as “Njalos” – is an upscale, mature lifestyle spot located at 35 Dippenaar Street, Zone 2, Diepkloof, Soweto. Known for its premium VIP experience, A-list entertainment and expansive food and cocktail menus, it caters to a selective, sophisticated audience that values quality, atmosphere and service.
Over time, Makubenjalo has grown beyond a venue into a cultural destination in its own right, renowned for curating premium lifestyle experiences that bring together music, entertainment and community. Taking this DNA to Durban July is a natural evolution: the brand extends its unique blend of township sophistication and luxury sensibility to one of South Africa’s most high-profile lifestyle stages.
Martell and OMODA: Heritage Meets Futuristic Design
In this partnership, Martell continues to represent excellence, audacity and the pursuit of distinction. The oldest of the great cognac houses, founded by Jean Martell in 1715, Maison Martell is renowned worldwide for the finesse and elegance of its cognacs, the result of a legacy of savoir-faire handed down through nine generations. Defined by a profound attachment to terroir and a boldness that has seen it continually reimagine cognac, Martell embodies authenticity, heritage and sophistication – values that align seamlessly with the essence of Country Allure.
OMODA, a futuristic, tech-forward automotive brand under the Chery Group, brings a complementary, contemporary edge. Known for its sleek “Art in Motion” design philosophy, OMODA offers a range of compact to midsize crossovers and SUVs featuring high-end digital cabins, advanced driver-assistance systems and efficient petrol, hybrid and electric (E5) powertrains. Rapidly establishing itself as synonymous with bold design, innovation and contemporary luxury, OMODA fits naturally into the fashion-forward, style-conscious spirit of the Durban July.
Together, Makubenjalo, Martell and OMODA present a layered expression of modern luxury: rooted in heritage, animated by innovation and anchored in a uniquely South African view of elegance and celebration.
Inside Njalo’s Durban July VIP Experience
Njalo’s Durban July tailor-made packages are designed to offer a complete, end-to-end premium experience. Guests can look forward to:
- Secured VIP parking and access to the Greyville VIP area
- Access to a fully staffed Njalo’s July VIP marquee
- All-inclusive gourmet catering, including a three-course premium dining experience and an all-day harvest table
- Welcome drinks by GH Mumm and Martell, along with a complimentary bar tab until 16:00
- Live entertainment by Friends of Njalos, featuring some of the best performers and DJs in the game
- Luxury comfort VIP seating within the marquee
- Exclusive high-end VIP security for added peace of mind
- Fully serviced VIP toilets, charging stations and a private cigar bar
- Automatic entry to the Njalo’s July afterparty
Each element has been intentionally curated to ensure that guests experience the Durban July not just as a race, but as a holistic journey of hospitality, entertainment and style.
As the countdown to Hollywoodbets Durban July continues, Makubenjalo will host a series of build-up activations, inviting broader audiences to share in the excitement and energy on the road to Njalo’s:
- 19 June – Ce La Vi Activation
- 21 June – Mkhize Rooftop Activation (Durban)
These moments serve as both a celebration and a preview, extending the narrative of Country Allure into spaces where Makubenjalo’s community already gathers and connects.
Njalo’s at Hollywoodbets Durban July 2026: Event Snapshot
All you need to know about Njalo’s at the Hollywoodbets Durban July:
- Date: Saturday, 4 July 2026
- Venue: Greyville Racecourse, Durban
The launch event at Makubenjalo marks the beginning of a remarkable journey toward Hollywoodbets Durban July 2026. It is the first chapter in a celebration that honours heritage, embraces modern luxury and showcases the power of collaboration between three brands united by a shared vision.
As anticipation builds for race day, one thing is certain: Makubenjalo, Martell and OMODA are set to deliver an experience that captures sophistication in a way that is both distinctive and unforgettable. The road to Njalo is already underway – and guests are invited to join the journey.