South African sports fans are preparing for an exciting year ahead, filled with high-profile events both locally and abroad.
Travel News spoke with Tourvest Destination Management Sports & Events, operators of Pure-Travel and SA Rugby Travel, to find out which sporting events agents should know about in 2025.
International
Illana Pereira, COO of Tourvest Destination Management Sports & Events, provided the following major international sporting events this year:
- Football: The UEFA Champions League Final in Munich in May.
- Tennis: The Grand Slam season offers the French Open in Paris (May), Wimbledon in London (June-July), and the US Open in New York (August-September).
- Golf: The US Masters in Augusta (April), The Open Championship in Northern Ireland (July), and the Ryder Cup in Upstate New York (September).
- Rugby: The Springboks’ End-of-Year Tour will take them to Wales, France, and Ireland in November, alongside international test matches in Argentina and New Zealand (July-September).
- Motorsport: The Formula 1 season starts in March and runs until December, with thrilling races across the globe.
Domestic
- Rugby: South Africa will host the Castle Lager Incoming Tour against Italy in June, followed by the Castle Lager Rugby Championship versus Australia in July.
- Motorsport: The Simola Hill Climb in Knysna, taking place in May, remains a standout event for local motor racing fans.
“South Africa is a sports-loving nation,” says Pereira. “Across all major disciplines, there is a dedicated fan base. Attending a major tournament in the sport you love remains a bucket-list item for many, which is why we see fans travelling year after year to support their favourite teams, players or drivers.”
Navigating travel concerns
For sports travellers, securing official tickets remains a priority. Pereira notes that Pure-Travel and SA Rugby Travel guarantee official tickets and provide clear communication about delivery as travellers also value guidance on logistics and itineraries.
Travellers also appreciate detailed itineraries and logistical support, which is why Pereira says it is important to partner with trusted sports tour operators.
‘Ultimate Experiences’
Pure-Travel has recently launched its ‘Ultimate Experiences’ range, a premium offering designed for South African sports travellers seeking more than just tickets and accommodation.
It provides access to world-class events, including Formula 1 Grand Prix races, Grand Slam tennis tournaments, major golf championships, and luxury ski holidays in the European Alps and other premier destinations.