Durban’s hosting of one of South Africa’s premier soccer events – the MTN8 cup final – provides evidence of the city’s calibre as a leading sports tourism destination.

Held at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on October 5, the soccer showpiece between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC drew over 60 000 fans to Durban.

Ethekwini Municipality Executive Mayor Cyril Xaba said the final had furthered the city’s goals of positioning itself as a sporting mecca.

“This demonstrates that the city continues to live up to its tag of being the premier destination for major sport events. The numbers we continue to attract during events in the city, whether it is sport or conferences, is an indication that our tourism sector is indeed bouncing back," said Xaba.

Xaba added that the final provided further proof of Durban’s readiness to welcome domestic and international visitors for the upcoming bumper festive season. More than 1.3 million tourists are expected to visit the city during this period.

He thanked the people of eThekwini, law enforcement agencies and the event organisers for delivering a memorable event for visitors and the soccer-loving public.

Xaba congratulated Orlando Pirates for emerging victorious in the showpiece, after their 3-1 victory.

Durban is anticipating millions of rand in revenue to be generated from an action-packed calendar of events set to take place over the next few months. Highlights include a range of music concerts (including the internationally-acclaimed rock band the Goo Goo Dolls at the Durban ICC on 5 December), a range of sporting events that include the T20 cricket international between South Africa and India at Hollywood Bets Kingsmead Stadium on November 8, and a variety of cultural and heritage events.