June 10, 2026: For decades, marathon runners around the world have dreamed of completing the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors. What began as an exclusive group of elite races has evolved into one of the most coveted achievements in distance running, inspiring thousands of runners to chase the iconic Six Star Medal.
Now, the global marathon landscape has changed forever.
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially been welcomed into the Abbott World Marathon Majors family, becoming the eighth race in the series and, more significantly, the first-ever World Marathon Major on the African continent. The milestone represents far more than the addition of another race. It is a historic moment for African running, global marathon participation, and the continued growth of one of the world’s most celebrated endurance sports.
A Historic First for Africa
Africa has long been synonymous with marathon excellence.
The continent has produced some of the greatest distance runners in history, including Olympic champions, world record holders, and countless elite athletes who have dominated the marathon scene for decades. Yet despite Africa’s immense contribution to the sport, it had never hosted a World Marathon Major.
That has now changed.
Following a successful evaluation process, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will officially join the Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2027, becoming Africa’s first race to achieve this prestigious status. The inaugural Cape Town Major will take place on 23 May 2027.
For many runners, this recognition feels long overdue. Africa is not merely part of marathon history—it has helped shape it.
What Are the Abbott World Marathon Majors?
The Abbott World Marathon Majors represent the most renowned marathon events in the world. Prior to Cape Town’s inclusion, the series consisted of:
- Tokyo Marathon
- Boston Marathon
- London Marathon
- Berlin Marathon
- Chicago Marathon
- New York City Marathon
- Sydney Marathon
Cape Town now becomes the eighth member of this elite group.
These races are known not only for their world-class organisation and elite competition but also for their cultural significance, spectator support, and ability to attract runners from every corner of the globe.
A Journey Years in the Making
Cape Town’s path to Major status was neither quick nor easy.
The race first entered the Abbott World Marathon Majors candidacy process several years ago. To qualify, candidate races must satisfy rigorous standards relating to event organisation, athlete experience, safety, logistics, elite competition, sustainability, and international appeal.
Throughout the evaluation period, organisers continually enhanced the event while showcasing Cape Town’s ability to host a world-class marathon.
The journey was not without setbacks. In 2025, severe overnight winds forced the cancellation of the marathon, creating uncertainty around its Major ambitions. Despite the disappointment, organisers remained committed to meeting the required standards. Their perseverance ultimately paid off when the 2026 event successfully completed its final evaluation, securing Cape Town’s place among the world’s greatest marathons.
Why Cape Town Is Unique
Every Major has its own personality.
Boston offers history and tradition. Berlin is famous for fast times and world records. New York delivers unmatched energy. Tokyo showcases precision and innovation.
Cape Town brings something entirely different.
Situated between dramatic mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the city is widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Marathon participants can experience breathtaking scenery, diverse cultures, and a uniquely African atmosphere throughout race weekend.
Abbott World Marathon Majors CEO Dawna Stone highlighted the city’s culture, welcoming people, and spectacular setting as qualities that will add an entirely new dimension to the series.
For international runners seeking an unforgettable destination race, Cape Town offers far more than just a finish line.
A Win for African Running
Perhaps the most important aspect of Cape Town’s promotion is what it means for runners across Africa.
For generations, African athletes have travelled around the world to compete in Major marathons. Now, aspiring runners from across the continent have a Major event closer to home.
The recognition shines a spotlight on Africa’s running heritage while creating new opportunities for participation, tourism, sponsorship, and community engagement. It also provides a platform for future generations of African runners to compete on one of the sport’s biggest stages without leaving the continent.
Cape Town Marathon CEO Clark Gardner described the achievement as a moment generations of African runners have been waiting for—a sentiment that resonates deeply throughout the running community.
What This Means for Marathon Collectors
The expansion of the Majors continues to reshape one of running’s most popular achievements.
For years, runners pursued the famous Six Star Medal by completing the original six World Marathon Majors. Sydney’s addition in 2024 expanded the family to seven races, and Cape Town now brings the total to eight.
Importantly, the Abbott World Marathon Majors organisation has confirmed that the Six Star Medal will remain available for runners pursuing the original six races. Existing achievements are not being replaced.
At the same time, the organisation is moving toward a future Nine Star Medal as the series continues to expand. The Shanghai Marathon remains a candidate race and could potentially become the ninth Major if it successfully completes its evaluation process.
For marathon enthusiasts, the journey has become even more exciting.
The Eliud Kipchoge Connection
Cape Town’s growing reputation has already attracted some of the sport’s biggest names.
Earlier in 2026, marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge chose Cape Town for the first marathon on his ambitious mission to run a marathon on all seven continents. His participation further highlighted the event’s growing global significance and demonstrated the respect the race has earned within elite running circles.
The presence of athletes of Kipchoge’s stature only strengthens Cape Town’s standing as a world-class marathon destination.
A New Era for Global Marathon Running
The addition of Cape Town represents more than geographic expansion. It reflects the increasingly global nature of distance running.
For many years, critics noted that the World Marathon Majors lacked representation from Africa despite the continent’s profound influence on the sport. Cape Town’s inclusion helps address that imbalance while creating new opportunities for runners worldwide to experience marathon running through a different cultural lens.
The move also signals the continued growth of mass participation running around the world. Marathon events are no longer confined to a handful of traditional locations. New cities, new cultures, and new running communities are helping shape the future of the sport.
The Road Ahead
When runners gather in Cape Town on 23 May 2027, they will be participating in more than a marathon.
They will be part of a landmark chapter in running history.
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon’s elevation to Major status recognises years of dedication, celebrates Africa’s immense contribution to distance running, and expands the horizons of marathon participation for future generations.
For runners chasing stars, seeking adventure, or simply looking for their next unforgettable race experience, Cape Town has officially secured its place on the global marathon map.
And for Africa, the arrival of its first World Marathon Major is a victory that has been decades in the making. 🌍🏃♂️🏃♀️
