Cape Town has secured a place in global sporting history after the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was officially confirmed as the first Abbott World Marathon Major to be held on African soil.
Following the successful staging of the 2026 event on 24 May, the marathon passed the second and final stage of the Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) assessment process. The race will formally join the prestigious series on 23 May 2027, becoming the eighth Abbott World Marathon Major alongside Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York.
For Cape Town, the achievement represents far more than inclusion in an elite sporting calendar. It places the city among a select group of global destinations recognised for hosting some of the world’s most celebrated road races.
AbbottWMM CEO Dawna Stone described Cape Town’s addition to the series as a significant milestone, highlighting the city’s unique culture, welcoming communities and spectacular setting as qualities that will bring a new dimension to the global marathon series.
A Global Spotlight on the Mother City
The elevation to Major status is expected to attract increased international attention to Cape Town, drawing runners and supporters from around the world.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said the achievement was an incredible moment for the city, noting that it would contribute significantly to the local economy, inspire future generations of runners and leave a lasting sporting legacy across Africa.
The marathon’s promotion to Major status follows years of growth and development, supported by residents, running clubs, volunteers, sponsors, service providers and city partners. During the candidacy period, runners consistently supported the event through the #YouDoCount campaign, helping the race meet the participation targets required by AbbottWMM.
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon CEO and race director Clark Gardner described the achievement as a collective victory, recognising the role played by the wider community in helping realise the vision.
Economic Opportunities for Cape Town
Beyond sporting prestige, the announcement carries significant economic implications for the city.
According to projections released by the event organisers, the marathon is expected to contribute approximately R800 million through local travel, accommodation and meal-related spending alone.
Major international sporting events have long been recognised as powerful tourism drivers, attracting visitors who often extend their stays to explore local attractions, restaurants, cultural experiences and nearby destinations.
As Africa’s first Major, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is positioned to become a major tourism draw, creating opportunities for businesses across the hospitality, transport and service sectors.
A Major for Africa
While the economic benefits are substantial, the significance of the announcement extends beyond Cape Town.
For decades, participation in a World Marathon Major required African runners to travel abroad at considerable expense. The introduction of a Major on African soil now provides athletes across the continent with access to one of the sport’s highest levels of competition closer to home.
In recognition of this goal, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has committed to keeping two-thirds of its race entries available to African participants.
As Cape Town prepares to host Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major in 2027, the city finds itself at the centre of a historic moment—one that celebrates sporting excellence, showcases the destination to the world and strengthens its position as a leading global events city.
