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Cape Town Becomes First African City to Join World Marathon Majors Series

Posted : 11 June 2026

Cape Town has officially been included in the World Marathon Majors, becoming the first African city to join the elite global marathon series, organisers announced on Wednesday.

The South African race now stands alongside some of the most iconic events in long-distance running, including marathons in London, New York, Boston, Chicago, Berlin, Sydney, and Tokyo. The decision marks a historic expansion of the series into Africa for the first time.

Abbott World Marathon Majors chief executive Dawna Stone praised the city’s unique atmosphere, highlighting its cultural richness, welcoming spirit, and scenic route as key factors that will add a new dimension to the global circuit. She expressed confidence that runners from across Africa and around the world will have an exceptional experience in Cape Town.

The marathon has already attracted global attention in recent years. The 2025 edition featured Kenya’s double Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge, who made his first competitive marathon appearance on African soil and finished 16th in 2:13:29.

The race was won by Ethiopia’s Mohamed Esa in a record-breaking time of 2:04:55, the fastest marathon ever recorded on African soil. His compatriot Yihunilign Adane finished second in 2:04:59, while Kenya’s Kalipus Lomwai took third in 2:05:06. All three athletes set personal bests in a highly competitive field.

Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis welcomed the announcement, describing it as the result of years of preparation and effort to bring the city into the prestigious series.

Organisers also projected a significant economic impact from the marathon’s new status, estimating around $49 million in spending from tourism, accommodation, and related travel activities.

The next Cape Town Marathon is scheduled for May 23, 2027. The 2025 edition was cancelled due to strong winds that raised safety concerns for participants.

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