US rapper Swae Lee added to 'The Ascots' lineup after DJ Mustard withdrawal.
Image: Instagram
The entertainment side of the Hollywoodbets Durban July just got a reshuffle. After previously announcing DJ Mustard, Bryson Tiller and Masego as the international headliners for The Ascots experience, organisers have now confirmed that Mustard will no longer be part of the line-up.
American rapper Swae Lee has officially been added to the bill, joining Bryson Tiller and Masego for the premium lifestyle event taking place at Greyville Racecourse on July 4.
The announcement comes after some confusion surrounding Mustard’s involvement. Shortly after his name was initially attached to the event, the Grammy-winning producer publicly distanced himself from the announcement, suggesting that it’s fake.
“We did everything right. And I'm very, very sorry that we didn't take enough time to make sure that all the T's were crossed and I's were dotted and whatever.
“But the truth of the matter is, we've been able to resolve things with Mustard’s team. We have a great deal of love and respect for Mustard, and we hope that we can work with them in the future. But right now, we've been able to lock in Swae Lee,” said Sibo Mhlungu, CEO and founder of Aline Media Group, in a video obtained by “Sunday World”.
The line-up is not the only thing that has changed. The organisers revamped their ticket structure and pricing on their website, reducing the packages from three tiers to two while dramatically adjusting the entry-level pricing.
Initially, The Ascots Lawns package cost R9 850 and included racecourse access, access to performances and a complimentary champagne brunch.
That option has now been replaced with a new package called The Ascots Gardens, priced at R2 750.
The updated Gardens experience includes access to The Ascots Village Lawns, food vendors, a cash bar and limited unreserved shaded seating designed for a more relaxed social atmosphere.
Meanwhile, The Ascot Terraces Private Lounge remains, although the pricing structure has also shifted slightly.
Previously priced at R100 000 for a table of 10, the package is now listed at R10 000 and includes 10 racecourse tickets, access to the private lounge area, complimentary champagne brunch service between 10am and 12pm, premium table service and curated dining experiences.
One noticeable omission from the updated offerings is the ultra-premium Owners Office Sky Club package, which was previously listed at R150 000 and featured a two-storey raised marquee with designated seating.
Despite the reshuffle, The Ascots is still pushing ahead with its vision of creating a luxury entertainment experience within the Durban July weekend, blending horse racing, fashion, hospitality and live music into one large-scale lifestyle event.
Alongside the international acts, local stars including Cassper Nyovest, Shekhinah, Elaine and Tresor are also expected to perform.
Speaking about the event's direction, Mhlungu said the goal is to position Durban as a serious destination for major international entertainment experiences.
“The focus is on the full experience, from arrival to the final act. As someone born and bred in Durban, this is more than just an event to me; it’s a way to uplift and contribute to my hometown.
"For years, Durban has been treated as a secondary market for large-scale shows and has rarely been considered a destination for international artists or events of this scale,” he said.