Cape Town’s marathon fever shows no signs of cooling down. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has once again sold out all 24 000 marathon entries for 2025, marking an unprecedented third consecutive year of complete sellouts.
The milestone comes as the South African race edges closer to making history as Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major – a designation that would place it alongside legendary races like Boston, London and New York.
“Selling out 24 000 entries at least three months before the event is an incredible milestone,” said JP Smith, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security. “The City of Cape Town is thrilled to support the marathon as it takes another big step toward becoming a World Marathon Major.”
The road to major status
The marathon’s journey to join the world’s most prestigious running events hit a major milestone in 2024 when it successfully passed Stage 1 of the Abbott World Marathon Majors assessment. Now, organisers are laser-focused on completing Stage 2 in 2025 – the final hurdle that could secure official Major status starting in 2026.
Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, sees the latest sellout as validation of Africa’s readiness for the global stage.
“This third consecutive sell-out is not just a testament to the marathon’s popularity, but a powerful statement of intent,” Gardner explained. “It signals that Africa is ready and deserving to stand shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Boston, London, New York, and the other Majors.”
Economic impact on the horizon
The implications extend far beyond the running community. Once Major status is officially confirmed, projections suggest the marathon will attract more than 20 000 international visitors annually from 2026 onwards, transforming Cape Town into a global running destination with significant economic benefits.
“This milestone is bigger than a sold-out start line – it’s a sign that the dream of a World Marathon Major on African soil is within reach,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas South Africa, the event’s technical partner.
The enthusiasm is shared across corporate partners, with Sanlam Group Executive Shadi Chauke noting: “This milestone is a source of great pride – not just for Cape Town, but for Africa as a whole.”
Still time to join the movement
While marathon entries are sold out, running enthusiasts can still participate in other events. Entries remain open for the 5km and 10km Peace Runs until 26 September, along with the popular trail events (11km, 22km, and 43km) taking place on Saturday, 18 October.
With just over 100 days until race day on 19 October, organizers are now focused on delivering the world-class event that could finally bring Major status to African soil.
The sellout represents more than just popular demand – it’s a continent’s collective belief that Africa deserves its place among the world’s greatest marathons.
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