When it comes to sports, each sport is popular in a certain region. We have cricket that dominates in India, American football in North America, Hockey in Canada, and Soccer in Europe, but horse racing is a different breed.
Horse racing is a global sport where you can find huge industries in every continent spreading from the Americas to Europe and Asia, and even in Australia and Africa.
Yes, Africa has a huge horse racing industry that mostly came from colonial influences mainly from the Brits, but throughout the years, many African nations have accepted the sport and have built an entire industry around it.
Africa is a big continent and obviously horse racing isn’t popular in every country. This inspired us to go on a search and find which countries have the biggest horse racing industry.
1. South Africa: The Powerhouse of African Horse Racing
The first place is reserved for South Africa, and there is no doubt that this country is a horse racing giant.
Its history dates back to 1797, when the first recorded race took place at Green Point Common in Cape Town—an event largely influenced by British settlers.
By 1802, organized racing took off, and South Africa got their first Jockey Club (now the National Horseracing Authority) which was formed just to regulate the sport. Horse racing skyrocketed in popularity under Lord Charles Somerset in 1814, who imported Thoroughbreds and set up a government stud.
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Nowadays, there a many different racecourses in South Africa, and some sources suggest that there are as many as 40. The sport also runs signature events like the Durban July (started in 1897) which proudly wears the crown as “Africa’s Richest Race Day,” attracting over 50,000 spectators each year. Other attractions include the Sun Met at Kenilworth – a high-profile event, drawing fashion-forward crowds and equestrian enthusiasts.
So, when it comes to horse racing, South Africa is no slouch. Even when it comes to betting, South Africa’s Gambling Act of 1965, banned all forms of gambling except betting on horses. But before you place a bet, make sure to learn all the horse betting basics.
2. Mauritius: Home of the Historic Champ de Mars Racecourse
Who would have thought that Mauritius has a rich horse racing culture? We are talking about a small island off Africa’s southeast coast, which claims the oldest racecourse in the Southern Hemisphere – the Champ de Mars, opened in 1812 by the Mauritius Turf Club.
Again, we can spot a British and French colonial influence that kickstarted racing here, with roots tied to Governor Sir Robert Farquhar who championed horse racing traditions during his tenure.
The Champ de Mars Racecourse remains a cultural cornerstone, hosting classics like the Maiden Cup and drawing 20,000+ spectators per meet, according to Wild Life in Safari.
Racing’s so big on the island, it is the Mauritius’ top sport, boosting tourism and the economy. With over 30 race days a year—March to December—it’s a year-round passion, blending local pride with international flair. Mauritius proves size doesn’t limit racing legacy.
3. Morocco: Arabian Heritage Meets Modern Racing
Morocco’s horse racing history ties deeply to its Arabian horse heritage, a breed prized for endurance and speed. The sport dates back centuries, with traditional fantasia displays evolving into organized racing under French colonial rule in the early 20th century.
The Royal Moroccan Federation for Equestrian Sports now oversees it, hosting events like the Grand Prix of His Majesty King Mohammed VI at tracks in Rabat and Casablanca.
Morocco’s scene leans toward Arabian racing, distinct from Thoroughbred-heavy nations, with festivals showcasing equine culture. While not as globally famous as South Africa’s races, its history and royal patronage—plus exports of Barb horses influencing Thoroughbred lines—give it a rich, if understated, legacy.
4. Egypt: Ancient Roots, Modern Racing
When most people think of Egypt, they picture the Pyramids and a civilization with a rich and storied past. But did you know that it is also a country in Africa that has the oldest equestrian roots that stretch back millennia?
We are talking about chariot races in pharaonic times—but modern horse racing took shape under British influence in the 19th century.
The Gezira Sporting Club in Cairo became a hub by the early 1900s, hosting Thoroughbred races.
Today, tracks like the Alexandria Sporting Club and Heliopolis keep the tradition alive, with events like the Egyptian Derby drawing local crowds.
Egypt’s scene isn’t as dominant as South Africa’s, but its ancient horse culture—tied to military and trade—adds depth. Recent online mentions on X suggest small but active racing pockets, though details on 2025 events are scarce.
5. Kenya: A Growing Equestrian Scene
Kenya’s racing history kicked off with British settlers in the early 20th century, centered at Nairobi’s Ngong Racecourse, opened in 1954. The Jockey Club of Kenya, founded around the same time, still governs it, hosting races like the Kenya Derby—a 2,400-meter Thoroughbred classic—every April, the highlight of the racing season.
Although Kenya is not yet a global heavyweight in the sport, Ngong’s Sunday meetings attract a modest yet passionate following, hinting at a promising future for Kenyan horse racing.
Other Notable African Horse Racing Nations
Several additional African countries also embrace horse racing to varying degrees:
- Nigeria: Though smaller, the sport has pockets of popularity, reflecting a broader interest in equestrian pursuits across the continent.
- Zimbabwe: Hosts competitive racing events at venues like Borrowdale Park in Harare.
Africa’s horse racing story is one of deep-rooted traditions and modern fervor. Each country has woven the sport into its cultural fabric, carving out unique identities in the world of equestrian events.
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