Considered the greatest marathon runner of all time, Eliud Kipchoge has landed in South Africa (Cape Town) to headline the upcoming Sanlam Cape Town Marathon taking place on the weekend of May 23–24, 2026.
This will mark Kipchoge’s first official marathon race on African soil, with Cape Town chosen as the opening stop of his “Eliud’s Running World” tour.
Over the next two years, the Kenyan runner will take on seven marathons across different continents to inspire healthier living and unite people through running.
Kipchoge received a warm welcome in Cape Town from city officials, race organisers, and media upon his arrival. The Kenyan running icon said he is excited to run with the local community and begin his seven-continent marathon journey in the Mother City.
With 27,000 runners ready to hit the streets, Kipchoge said he wants to share “a beautiful race” with everyone taking part, calling it “a historic day” for Africans to run side-by-side and help “make Cape Town a World Major Marathon.”
The 2026 edition is set to bring massive energy to Cape Town, with 44,500 participants expected across the marathon weekend. Alongside the 27,000 marathon runners, thousands more will take part in the 10km, 5km Peace Runs, and trail races, making it one of Africa’s biggest running events.
For all you need to know, hit capetownmarathon.com.
