The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially been confirmed as Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major, becoming the eighth race to join one of the most prestigious marathon series in the world.
The announcement follows the successful staging of the 2026 event and marks a historic moment not only for South Africa but for the entire African continent. The Cape Town race will formally join the Abbott World Marathon Majors series when the next edition takes place on 23 May 2027.
The Abbott World Marathon Majors currently includes some of the most iconic races in global athletics, including the marathons in Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York. Cape Town now becomes the first African city to earn a place among the elite group.
Abbott World Marathon Majors CEO Dawna Stone welcomed Cape Town into the series, describing the achievement as a significant moment for both the organisation and the sport.
“It gives me huge pleasure to welcome Cape Town to the family,” Stone said.
“Africa’s first Major has finally arrived. The unique culture, the welcome from the people of the city and the wonderful setting Cape Town provides will bring a whole new dimension to our series.”
The achievement is particularly significant for African runners, many of whom have traditionally faced major financial and logistical barriers when attempting to participate in the world’s biggest marathons abroad.
For decades, athletes from across the continent have had to contend with the costs of international travel, accommodation and visa requirements to compete in a World Marathon Major. The addition of Cape Town creates a major event on African soil, bringing the opportunity closer to home for thousands of runners.
The recognition also shines a spotlight on Africa’s longstanding contribution to long-distance running. African athletes have dominated global marathon competition for decades, producing many of the sport’s greatest champions and record holders.
Cape Town Marathon CEO and Race Director Clark Gardner said the milestone belongs to everyone who supported the event throughout its journey toward Major status.
“This achievement belongs to every person who believed in and committed to this vision,” Gardner said.
“The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon stands as proof that when Africa comes together, we can achieve anything.”
The announcement is expected to elevate Cape Town’s profile as an international sporting destination while strengthening Africa’s presence on the global athletics calendar.
With its inclusion in the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, Cape Town will now stand alongside some of the most recognised and sought-after races in the world, giving African runners the opportunity to pursue a World Marathon Major experience without leaving the continent.