The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially made history as the eighth member of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors.
This milestone marks a monumental achievement for global athletics, establishing the very first Major marathon on the African continent.
The scenic South African race now proudly stands alongside elite world events in London, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, New York, Tokyo, and Sydney.
Sweeping views of Table Mountain and a spectacular coastal route will greet the influx of international runners seeking this new crown.
The journey toward this historic integration required several years of rigorous logistical planning and meeting stringent athletic assessment criteria.
Despite a brief timeline extension following an unexpected 2025 event cancellation, organizers successfully completed their final evaluation in May 2026.
Runners crossing the finish line during the 2026 event will receive provisional stars to honor their pioneering participation.
The official inclusion promises to inject vibrant African energy and unprecedented global demand into the highly competitive race entry lottery.
This strategic expansion introduces a deeply desired geographic diversity to the series, bridging a massive gap in international marathon racing history.
Elite athletes and passionate amateur runners alike are already setting their sights on the inaugural Major race in May 2027.
The global running community celebrates this triumph as Africa finally takes its rightful, shining place at the pinnacle of road racing.