Race leaders enjoy full use of the road along the Umhlanga lagoon due to the road closures
Image: Ant Grote/Gameplan Media
Durban will come alive with the spirit of freedom and fitness this Sunday as thousands of cyclists take to the streets for the annual aQuellé Tour Durban, coinciding with Freedom Day on Sunday April 27.
The popular cycling event, known for transforming the city into a cyclist’s haven for the day, will see riders of all ages and skill levels enjoying the rare opportunity to safely cruise along the M4 to Umdloti, with full road closures in place to ensure a secure and festive ride.
Participants will compete across four different distances – from the family-friendly 28km fun ride to the gruelling 110km elite race, that begins and ends at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium. This year’s long-distance race will feature three laps: two to Umdloti and a third shorter circuit via the M41, known for its sharp climbs and strategic racing opportunities.
All eyes will be on Daniyal Matthews, the newly crowned South African national road champion, who recently made history as the first cyclist of colour to win the elite men’s title at the national championships. The Paarl-born rider will debut his new champion’s jersey in Durban, supported by the powerhouse Team Siata, which is fielding a strong 12-rider squad.
Matthews is expected to face stiff competition from the likes of Josh Rheeders (Luso ACDC Pro Cycling Team), last year’s winner, and Grant van der Walt, who was a close runner-up. Rheeders’ tactical sprint secured him victory in 2024 after a dramatic breakaway faltered in the final lap. With teams now wiser to the importance of cooperation and strategy, Sunday’s showdown promises even more drama.
Team Siata’s presence is likely to be a game-changer again this year. While Matthews may be their primary focus, experienced riders like Matome Machaba and Marius Coutaud provide the team with multiple tactical options, especially if Matthews is heavily marked.
In the women’s race, multiple Tour Durban champion Joanna van de Winkel will be looking to defend her crown. However, with a lighter race calendar behind her this season, she could face tough challenges from emerging talent, making the women’s podium race wide open.
Road closures will be in effect from 3.30am to 1.30pm on Sunday, impacting major routes including Masabala Yengwa Avenue, Isaiah Ntshangase Road, Ruth First Highway (M4), M41, Ridgeside Drive, Sandile Thusi Road, and Battery Beach Road. Residents and visitors are advised to plan their travel accordingly.
Durban's Joanna van de Winkel has been a dominant force in recent years at the aQuellé Tour Durban road races.
Image: Ant Grote/Gameplan Media