The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is one of the most spectacular destination marathons in the world, combining a fast urban course with some of the most breathtaking scenery found in any major city marathon. Held in Cape Town, South Africa, the event takes runners through a city renowned for its dramatic natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. With iconic views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic coastline, and the cityโs historic neighborhoods, the race offers an unforgettable experience that extends far beyond the finish line.
What truly distinguishes the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is its historic role in expanding the global marathon landscape. For several years, the race pursued candidacy for inclusion in the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors series, undergoing a rigorous multi-year evaluation process focused on organizational excellence, participant experience, elite competition, safety standards, and international appeal. In 2026, the race successfully completed its final evaluation and was officially accepted as the eighth Abbott World Marathon Major, becoming the first race on the African continent to join the worldโs most prestigious marathon series. This milestone represents a landmark achievement not only for Cape Town but for African distance running as a whole, bringing the World Marathon Majors to a new continent for the first time.
Beyond its elite status, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon remains deeply connected to its host city and continent. It is widely regarded as Africaโs premier road marathon and serves as a showcase for South African hospitality, culture, and sporting excellence. The event attracts runners seeking both competitive performance and adventure, offering the rare opportunity to race through one of the worldโs most beautiful cities while participating in a race that has become a symbol of African achievement on the global sporting stage. Whether pursuing a personal best, collecting a new World Marathon Major star, or simply experiencing Cape Townโs unique atmosphere, participants can expect a world-class race experience that combines international prestige with unmistakable local character.
