Durban to host its first Shay iMoto spinning festival

Motorsport fans in Durban will be pleased to know that Red Bull is bringing their prestigious Shay’ iMoto spinning event to the city in August at the Suncoast Casino.

Petrolheads, car enthusiasts and hardcore spin fans will have the opportunity to witness the country’s best spinning artists painting their masterpieces on thde Durban tarmac. From King Katra and Sam Sam to Panjaro Kruger and reigning champion Chadwin “Boksie” Hadjie, the city will play host to spinning royalty this winter.

The cooler conditions in August, combined with Durban’s coastal location, are set to enhance vehicle performance. Most spinning cars used in the scene today are naturally aspirated, and these engines benefit significantly from the oxygen-rich atmosphere at sea level, as more oxygen improves combustion efficiency — giving performance cars more ‘juice’.

The Durban edition of the event, therefore, promises to be a cracker on the coast.

“On Sunday, August 10, ticket holders will gather to witness the crowning of the Red Bull Shay’ iMoto champion," Red Bull said in a statement.

"Judged by a panel of well-known motorsport personalities, alongside votes from the crowd, the format ensures that both precision and performance are rewarded.

“The 2024 event saw Cape Town’s Chadwin ‘Boksie’ Hadjie take the title from two-time defending champion Samkeliso ‘Sam Sam’ Thubane in Cape Town. With Durban now hosting for the first time, 2025 promises a new twist on the course layout, even higher stakes, and a fresh wave of talent."

Last year, Thubane became the first professional driver in the discipline after he was signed as a Red Bull athlete.