# Fundi Sithebe

Fundi Sithebe is a South African business executive and pilot, recognized as a pioneering figure in both the horse racing and aviation industries. She served as the chief executive officer (CEO) of 4Racing, South Africa's largest horse racing operator, from June 1, 2021, until her resignation announcement on March 13, 2025, effective May 31, 2025. Sithebe is widely noted as the first Black CEO of a racing company in South Africa, and potentially globally, marking a historic milestone in the sport's leadership.

## Early life and education

Fundi Sithebe was born in Diepkloof, Soweto, South Africa. She attended Hilton College, an elite private school in KwaZulu-Natal, where she was among the first female students to complete A-Level studies in 1996. This experience significantly influenced her leadership philosophy and commitment to challenging gender norms. Sithebe later earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Midrand University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management (Business Administration) from Wits Business School. In 2003, she obtained a Private Pilot's License (PPL), reflecting her longstanding interest in aviation.

## Career

Sithebe began her professional journey in the financial and consulting sectors. She worked as a management consultant at Deloitte, specializing in strategy and operations, and later joined the expansion team of First National Bank (FNB) of South Africa. At FNB, she contributed to the bank's growth initiatives across the African continent, honing her expertise in business development and operational leadership.

## Airports Company South Africa (ACSA)

From December 2017 to April 2021, Sithebe served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). In this role, she oversaw operations at nine airports, managed infrastructure development, and spearheaded efforts to integrate safe, efficient, and profitable aviation services. Her tenure at ACSA solidified her reputation as a transformative leader in high-stakes industries.

## 4Racing

On June 1, 2021, Sithebe was appointed CEO of 4Racing, becoming the first Black individual to lead a major horse racing organization in South Africa. During her leadership, she focused on modernizing the industry, promoting diversity and inclusion, and ensuring sustainable growth. Her initiatives aimed to broaden the sport's appeal and accessibility, particularly in a field historically dominated by male leadership.
Fundi was appointed to the Board of the World Tote Association at WoTA's General Assembly in 2022 in London. Sithebe was elected to the WoTA Board, which includes some of the most prominent figures in the global horseracing industry, by the members of WoTA's General Assembly. Sithebe announced her resignation on March 13, 2025, with her departure effective at the end of May 2025, prompting widespread discussion about her legacy and the future of South African horse racing.

## Durban July Handicap

The Hollywoodbets Durban July Handicap July itself has evolved under 4Racing’s watch, maintaining its status as a premier event while adapting to modern demands. The 2024 edition, themed “Ride the Wave,” saw Oriental Charm, trained by Brett Crawford and ridden by Juan Paul van der Merwe, claim victory, further showcasing the competitive depth of the field. Sithebe’s strategic oversight ensures that such events not only honor tradition but also pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future for South African horse racing. Her tenure is a blend of business acumen and passion for transformation, making her a key figure in the ongoing narrative of the Durban July and the sport at large.
Under Sithebe’s leadership, 4Racing has worked to elevate the Durban July and the broader horse racing scene. Her vision emphasizes inclusivity and innovation, aiming to broaden the sport’s appeal beyond its traditional audience. This is evident in initiatives like the digital transformation of the industry and efforts to make ownership more accessible, as seen with her involvement in a syndicate that owns the filly Mrs Geriatrix. In 2023, this horse, trained by Sean Tarry, won the Zulu Kingdom Explorer Golden Slipper (Grade 2) on Durban July day, a moment Sithebe celebrated with fellow syndicate members at Greyville. She highlighted the joy of collective ownership, noting it as a way to democratize the sport: “It shows you don’t have to be ultra-rich to own a racehorse; you can join a syndicate and be part of the fun.” Sithebe’s influence extends to celebrating milestones that reflect her goals for diversity. In 2023, Soweto-born jockey Kabelo Matsunyane won the Durban July aboard Winchester Mansion, marking his first Grade 1 victory and a significant moment for representation in the sport. Sithebe praised this achievement as a testament to the quality of South Africa’s racing talent and the industry’s potential for growth under 4Racing’s stewardship.

## Personal life

Sithebe has cited her upbringing in Soweto and her experiences as a woman in male-dominated fields as key influences on her leadership style. She is an advocate for inclusivity and has spoken about the importance of challenging the status quo to create opportunities for underrepresented groups.

## Legacy and Impact

Fundi Sithebe is celebrated for breaking barriers as a Black female executive in South Africa. Her tenure at 4Racing is credited with advancing the transformation of horse racing, while her earlier work at Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) showcased her ability to manage complex operational systems. The World Tote described Sithebe's workload as comparable to that of the British Prime Minister, highlighting his active promotion of pool betting and the essential role it plays in supporting the global horse racing industry. She remains an influential figure in discussions about diversity, leadership, and industry innovation in South Africa.