South Africa’s vibrant action sports scene is packed with adrenaline-pumping events that attract top local and international talent. Whether you’re into BMX, motocross, kite surfing, spinning, or drifting, there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 must-watch action sports events to mark on your 2025 calendar.
- Ultimate X
When: First quarter of 2025
Where: Cape Town, South Africa
Ultimate X brings together the best BMX riders and skateboarders from South Africa and around the globe for a jaw-dropping display of extreme sports. Expect high-flying tricks, fierce competition, and a festival-like atmosphere at this iconic event.
- DarkFEST
When: Early or late 2025
Where: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Home to the world’s biggest jumps in freeride mountain biking, DarkFEST draws international athletes pushing the limits of what’s possible on two wheels. This event is a spectacle of massive tricks and groundbreaking stunts that will leave fans in awe.
- King of the Whip
When: Last quarter of 2025
Where: Johannesburg, South Africa
Combining freestyle motocross (FMX) and motocross, King of the Whip showcases daring stunts as riders compete for cash prizes in categories like Best Whip and Best Trick. Expect international and local stars battling it out for supremacy.
- Red Bull Shay’imoto
When: To be announced (historically in the first quarter)
Where: Various locations in South Africa
This spinning competition pits South Africa’s best spinners against each other in a high-energy contest. Keep an eye out for Sam Sam, the first spinner to win three consecutive titles and a Red Bull-sponsored athlete.
- German vs Japan Car Show
When: Third quarter of 2025
Where: Johannesburg, South Africa
A paradise for car enthusiasts, this event celebrates the finest German and Japanese vehicles. Featuring top-tier designs, performance showcases, and opportunities to engage with car owners, it’s a must-attend for petrolheads.
- Revved Up Sunday
When: Monthly (First or last Sunday)
Where: Wheelz ‘n Smoke, Johannesburg
This monthly event is a showcase of spinning and car stance culture. Whether it’s the roar of engines or the artistry of pimped-out rides, Revved Up Sunday delivers excitement for automotive enthusiasts.
- Red Bull King of the Air
When: Last quarter of 2025
Where: Kite Beach, Cape Town
As the premier kite surfing event, Red Bull King of the Air features the world’s best kiteboarders performing gravity-defying tricks. With a newly introduced Women’s Division, 2025 promises to be another historic year.
- Red Bull Car Park Drift
When: Second quarter of 2025
Where: Durban, South Africa
This high-octane event tests South Africa’s top drifters in a series of challenges. The winner earns a spot in the World Finals to compete against the globe’s elite drifters.
- Roof of Africa
When: Last quarter of 2025
Where: Lesotho (close to South Africa)
Known as one of the hardest enduro events in the world, Roof of Africa attracts top local and international riders. Despite being in Lesotho, its proximity to South Africa makes it a staple on this list for hardcore enduro fans.
- Skateboarding Day & BMX Day
When: Two separate events in 2025
Where: Various locations in South Africa
These dedicated days celebrate the skateboarding and BMX communities with competitions, showcases, and opportunities for fans to meet their favorite athletes.
From BMX and motocross to kite surfing and car drifting, South Africa’s 2025 action sports calendar promises a year of thrilling events. Stay tuned to ESA (www.extremesportsaction.co.za) for updates and coverage on these adrenaline-fueled spectacles!
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