Strongman sets world record in Century City

A world record for sheer strength was set in Century City last week when Austrian strongman Franz Müllner pulled a City Sightseeing six-wheel double-decker bus weighing 14 530kg over 20 metres in 57 seconds.

Müllner is a former special forces member of the Austrian army. His visit to Cape Town marked his sixth world record in his quest to set seven world records across seven continents. 

The Austrian Rock, as he is known, has also lifted a 661kg helicopter on his shoulder for 30 seconds during a stunt in Austria. He also holds the longest duration - 50 seconds - for restraining four motorcycles.

After crossing the finishing line last week, Müllner raised his fists in victory.

He said it took four months to prepare for the stunt, training for four hours a day on bicycle, strongman gym and by following a good diet.

“I feel very strong, I feel very good, and Cape Town is beautiful,” said Mr Müllner.

He said his upcoming seventh world record will be in Antarctica where he will be pulling a plane.

The Record Institute Germany issued him a world record certificate which stated that: “Franz Müllner achieved the world record for the fastest time to pull an extra heavy double-decker bus 20 meters (male). During his 7 Continents challenge he pulled a 14 530 kg heavy City Sightseeing bus in only 57 seconds over the 20 meter distance at Long March to Freedom in Cape Town, South Africa, on 16 April 2025."

The City of Cape Town's Mayoral committee member for economic growth, James Vos, said: “As Cape Town we are very proud that Franz has come here to do this world record today with this perfect backdrop of Table Mountain."

He said the red bus is one of Cape Town tourism's features. "What would Cape Town be without the red buses and City Sightseeing. And so for him to come here and to pull this bus just shows that Cape Town is open for business and we are always open to new things,” said Mr Vos.