In the world of endurance sport, there are athletes, and then there is Eliud Kipchoge. Widely regarded as the greatest marathoner to ever lace up a pair of running shoes, the Kenyan legend has conquered the streets of Berlin, London, Chicago, and Tokyo. Yet, throughout his storied career, one glaring omission remained: he had never raced a competitive marathon on African soil.
That is about to change.
In a move that has sent shockwaves of excitement through the Western Cape, Kipchoge has officially announced that the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, taking place on Sunday, 24 May 2026, will serve as the opening chapter of “Eliud’s Running World”—a historic global mission to unite the world through sport.
A Historic First
While Kipchoge’s career is defined by breaking the “impossible” two-hour barrier and collecting Olympic gold, his appearance in the Mother City marks a massive milestone. This will be the first time in his professional career that he competes in a marathon on the African continent.
For years, it has been Kipchoge’s dream to make our world a “running world”. Over the next two years, he sets out to run a marathon on each of the seven continents to inspire people to lead healthier lives. Choosing Cape Town as the very first stop on this seven-continent journey is a profound nod to the city’s rising status in the global athletic community.
Celebrating African Roots
For Kipchoge, beginning this world tour in Cape Town carries deep personal meaning.
“Africa is where my journey as a runner began and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted,” Kipchoge stated. He explained that starting in Cape Town is a way to celebrate the strength of African running and provide a spark for the next generation of athletes on the continent that shaped him.
A Major Ambition
Kipchoge’s arrival is a strategic leap forward for South African sport. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is currently a candidate for Abbott World Marathon Majors status. By attracting the greatest of all time, the race is proving it belongs alongside the legendary marathons of the world, with the ultimate goal of bringing Africa its first-ever “Major”.
Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, noted that hosting Kipchoge represents a significant step in that journey. “Eliud represents the very best of what running can inspire. To see him race our streets, meet our communities and engage with young runners across the city will be incredibly powerful,” Gardner said. “Moments like this remind us what is possible when the world’s greatest athletes connect with the places and people that shaped the sport”.
Running for a Cause
Beyond the finish line, the “Running World” project serves a greater purpose. The tour aims to raise funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving our environment and providing education in areas that need it most.
As over 27,000 marathon runners prepare to line up this May, the eyes of the world will be on Cape Town. It is more than just a race; it is a celebration of a man who has spent his life proving that no human is limited, finally bringing that message home to Africa.
