The 2026 CastleBet Cup has concluded in Rehoboth, with organisers and sponsors celebrating a highly successful turnout that points to a bright future for Namibian horse racing. Supported by a N$300,000 sponsorship from CastleBet, the competition drew top-tier stables, jockeys, and racing enthusiasts from all corners of the country, establishing itself as one of the premier events on the national racing calendar.
Namibia Horse Racing Federation President, Gottfried Mootu, noted that the high spectator turnout at the Rehoboth event reflects the rising popularity of the sport. To sustain this momentum, Mootu announced that the federation is planning to establish a racing academy aimed at training younger riders and securing the long-term growth of the sport.
Mootu expressed great satisfaction with the community's response, stating that the enthusiasm surrounding this year's cup confirms the sport's upward trajectory in Namibia. He emphasized that building an academy will provide the next generation of riders with the structure they need to excel, ensuring Namibian horse racing continues to thrive.
CastleBet representative Tobias Naule affirmed that the company’s financial backing aligns with their broader goal of empowering local communities and advancing Namibian sports.
Naule stated that investing in grassroots sports serves as a building block for national development. He explained that events like the CastleBet Cup not only uplift communities but also open doors for young athletes, urging other corporate entities to collaborate with sports federations to elevate national athletics.
With consistent corporate backing and a clear focus on youth development, stakeholders remain confident that the foundation laid at this year's tournament will drive the expansion of horse racing across the country.