The scent of horsepower and braai smoke hangs thick in the air. A thunderous, ground-shaking roar rips through the Breede River Valley, and a plume of dust explodes into the sky. This is not a drill. This is the raw, untamed, high-octane reality of the Cape Route Rally Gravel Kings Drag Fest 2.0, and it is returning to Worcester from 14-16 November 2025.
This is more than just an event; it’s a cultural movement. This is grassroots drag racing, built for the bold and fuelled by passion. Conceived by the Cape Route Rally team – Antony Ashely, Louis Smit, and Dieter Pey – Gravel Kings is South Africa’s premier gravel drag racing festival. It’s a three-day celebration of raw power, masterful engineering, and the adventurous spirit that defines the South African 4×4 community.
Backed by a powerhouse of industry leaders like MaxTrek Tyres, FreightFactory, MUA, Ignition TV, Powerflow, and Jackery, this is the ultimate pilgrimage for petrolheads, overlanders, and anyone who lives for the thrill of the build.
The Challenge: Dethrone The King
At the heart of the festival is one simple question: who can own the dust? The event is a head-to-head dirt strip showdown, pitting 4×4 machines, bakkies, and wildly modified rigs against each other.
All eyes will be on one man: reigning champion JP Fourie. He returns to defend his title in the legendary number 69 Nissan – a custom-built GQ Y60 Patrol powered by a monstrous 878kW LS V8 Turbo engine. It’s a beast built for one purpose, and it sets a formidable challenge for any competitor brave enough to line up alongside it.
Win A Fully Built Nissan Patrol
You read that correctly. The Gravel Kings team is not just putting on a show; they are giving away a legend. This November, one lucky attendee will win a fully built Nissan Patrol, the ultimate symbol of 4×4 adventure.
The mechanic is beautifully simple: for every R100 spent on official apparel at the event, you will receive one raffle ticket for the draw. The more gear you get, the higher your chances of driving home in a machine that most only dream of owning.
The Full-Throttle Festival: More Than Just Racing
The action is non-stop for three full days. The gates open for early setup on Wednesday, 12th November, but the real “gees” ignites on Friday.
- FRIDAY 14-Nov (The Buildup): The event kicks off as competitors dial in their machines during the afternoon practice runs (15:00-17:00). As the sun sets, the bar opens, the live bands start, and the festival hosts an exclusive screening of the “Deserts and Diamonds” Documentary.
- SATURDAY 15-NOV (Race Day): This is the big one. Breakfast stalls open at 7:30 AM before the main Drag Qualifiers roar to life from 8:00 AM to 13:00. After the Class Finals, attendees can catch the rugby on the big screen before the prize-giving. The night then explodes with live bands and DJs until 22:00.
- SUNDAY 16-NOV (Finals & Super Shootouts): This is when champions are crowned. The morning sees the final races, leading to the main event: the Finals and Super Shootouts from 13:00 to 14:30. It’s a short, sharp, and intense day of action, culminating in the final prize-giving.
Beyond the strip, the venue transforms into an off-road village. The beating heart of this is Overlander Alley, a dedicated hub for 4×4 enthusiasts to explore brand demos, get inspired by custom builds, and connect with industry leaders. This is complemented by a vibrant Vendor Village, food courts, merch stalls, and a dedicated Family & Kids Play Area.
Get In On The Action: Race, Exhibit, Or Sell
Gravel Kings is a platform. For those who want to be part of the action, not just watch it, there are multiple ways to get involved.
- Calling All Competitors: This is your moment. The race is open to all builds – modified, stock, diesel, petrol, AWD, and 2WD. With multiple classes, practice runs, and media coverage from Ignition TV (DStv 169), this is your chance to make your mark.
- Become An Exhibitor: For brands ready to flex their engineering, the Exhibitor Zone is the ultimate platform. Get your builds, suspension tech, and gear in front of thousands of hardcore 4×4 fans and media.
- 5m x 10m Stand
- 10m x 10m Stand
- 15m x 15m Stand
- Join The Vendor Village: For those slinging biltong, brewing coffee, or selling gear, the Vendor Village is a high-energy zone for serious sales.
To secure a spot as a competitor, exhibitor, or vendor, contact Nick on 082 258 2828 or email www.gravelkings.co.za.
Your Weekend, Your Way: From Wild To Vip
Gravel Kings caters to every style of adventurer and every budget.
- Wild Camping (R500 Per Vehicle/Setup): For the hardcore crews and off-grid warriors. This is the real deal: roll in, pitch your rig, and claim your patch of earth. This pass gives you access to the fire-friendly (designated zones) camping area with shared ablutions and hot showers.
- GLAMPING (R4 495 For Two): Camp like a king. This package includes two Full Weekend Passes and a pre-pitched luxury tent kitted out with plush bedding, private showers, lockable setups, and a dedicated concierge.
- The Ultimate Vip Experience: This is where performance meets prestige. The VIP package is an elite experience from start to finish. It includes seamless arrival via an on-site helicopter pad or a chauffeured luxury shuttle. VIPs get exclusive access to a climate-controlled hospitality lounge with full catering by renowned chefs, behind-the-scenes access to racers, and their own bespoke glamping accommodation with private bathrooms.
A Professional & Secure Event
An event of this scale is backed by a professional commitment to safety. All competing vehicles undergo rigorous scrutineering to meet international motorsport standards. The entire venue, from the spectator zones to the 24/7 monitored glamping area, is secured by a professional security team, trained marshals, and on-site medical facilities.
Get Your Tickets Now
This is your chance to be part of South Africa’s most exciting 4×4 and motorsport festival.
- Full Weekend Pass (14-16 Nov): R450 per adult
- Saturday Pass (15 Nov): R300 per adult
- Sunday Pass (16 Nov): R200 per adult
Tickets, accommodation packages, and VIP enquiries can all be made via the official website. Do not wait – spots are limited, and this event will sell out.
Book your spot now. Unleash the beast. Own the dust.
- General Inquiries: info@gravelkings.co.za | 021 201 7398 | 082 258 2828
- VIP Concierge: info@gravelkings.co.za
To secure your tickets or find out more, visit www.gravelkings.co.za or use the enquiry form below.
For more information about the event, race registrations, ticket availability, or exhibitor opportunities, please complete the enquiry form below, and a member of their team will respond promptly.
