Ducati King of the Whip 2026

Countdown to the Best Whip and Best Trick Showdown Begins

The ultimate Moto X showdown of style and skill returns to Montecasino on 7 November 2026.

Ducati King of the Whip brings together South Africa’s top Motocross and Freestyle Motocross athletes alongside some of the world’s elite riders. Ducati joins as the official title partner, adding a new dimension to one of South Africa’s most visually spectacular motorsport events.

The event is presented by LW Mag in partnership with Monster Energy, iCAUR, Garmin, Motul, DJI, Fox Racing and Estrella Cerveza.

Riders will compete for podium positions, cash prizes and event honours in the Best Whip and FMX Best Trick contests. Fans can expect an action-packed afternoon and evening of massive airtime, spectacular whips and tricks, pyrotechnics and non-stop entertainment.

Genki Watanabe © Eric Palmer

An Afternoon of Action and a Night-Time Finale

Gates open at 2:30pm, giving spectators time to explore the rider pits and meet competitors during the popular Pit Walk. VIP ticket holders receive early access from 1:00pm, including an official rider meet-and-greet.

Competition begins at 4:00pm and builds towards a spectacular finale under the lights, complete with pyrotechnics.

The Best Whip contest takes riders through qualifying rounds, semi-finals and finals. Judges will score each rider on style, amplitude, execution and variation.

The FMX Best Trick contests feature upright and inverted trick categories, with riders pushing the limits of what is possible on a dirt bike. Competitors will chase their share of the cash prize purse, alongside prizes supplied by official event partners.

International Stars and Local Contenders

America’s Wyatt Fontenot returns to defend his King of the Whip crown after ending Belgian rider Julien Vanstippen’s winning run in 2025.

Vanstippen claimed three consecutive King of the Whip titles from 2022 to 2024. Fresh from securing his third X Games Best Whip gold medal, he returns determined to reclaim the crown.

Australia’s Pat Bowden also made his mark in 2025, winning both FMX Best Trick categories with an impressive display of technical skill and creativity.

South Africa’s riders will be out in force, ready to challenge for the podium. FMX standout Dallan Goldman will once again be in contention, while Motocross racers Trent Valsecchi, Ryan Adler and Dalton Venter bring their signature styles to the Best Whip arena.

Further local and international rider announcements will follow in the lead-up to the event.

Dallan Goldman © Eric Palmer

The Art of the Whip

A whip is one of Motocross’s most iconic aerial manoeuvres. While airborne, the rider throws the motorcycle sideways, often at an extreme angle, before bringing it back into position for landing.

Combining style, bike control, commitment and creativity, the whip is one of the most visually impressive skills in action sports.

Tickets Available Now

From dedicated Motocross fans to families looking for an exciting day out, Ducati King of the Whip offers an electric atmosphere. Food and beverages will be available throughout the venue, adding to the festival experience.

Tickets start at R300. All previous editions have sold out, so fans are encouraged to book early.

For tickets and event information, visit Howler.co.za/KOTW2026.

Ducati King of the Whip Event Details

Date: 7 November 2026
Gates open: 2:30pm
VIP access: From 1:00pm
Competition starts: 4:00pm
Venue: Montecasino, Montecasino Boulevard, corner of William Nicol and Witkoppen, Fourways, Sandton, Johannesburg
Tickets: From R300 at Howler.co.za/KOTW2026

Ticket prices exclude booking fees.

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Distributed by Truth Collective

craig@truthcollective.co.za