CAPE TOWN MARATHON SELLS OUT 2025 ENTRIES, CLOSE TO MAJORS
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially sold out entries for the 2025 edition, with all 24,000 marathon entries snapped up—more than three months ahead of race day.
It’s the third consecutive year the event has sold out, sending a clear signal: Cape Town is ready for the world stage.
The surge in demand comes at a crucial time, as the marathon enters Stage 2 of the Abbott World Marathon Majors (AWMM) evaluation process—the final hurdle before potential inclusion as Africa’s first Major in 2026.
“This third consecutive sell-out is not just a testament to the marathon’s popularity, but a powerful statement of intent,” says Sanlam Cape Town Marathon CEO Clark Gardner.
“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. Our runners, sponsors, partners, and the entire Cape Town community have made it clear that we are united in our vision to bring a World Marathon Major home.”
The 2025 marathon hits the streets of the Mother City on 19 October.
Major Dream for Cape Town
Cape Town’s Major Dream has gained momentum since passing Stage 1 of the AWMM assessment in 2024.
Stage 2 will scrutinise the event’s delivery, safety, sustainability, and international appeal. A successful outcome would secure its spot among the prestigious six: Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Tokyo.
For Cape Town, the latest milestone is a reflection of Cape Town’s growing reputation as a world-class sporting destination and a preferred running hub. It also represents a step closer to a historic moment for the city.
“This is an incredible milestone, testament not only to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon organisers’ hard work but also to Cape Town and South Africa’s growing commitment to running,” says the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith.
“The City of Cape Town is thrilled to lend support to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon as it takes another big step toward becoming a World Marathon Major.”
Increased interest is also expected to drive a tourism boom.
Should Major status be granted, the event could welcome over 20,000 international visitors annually from 2026, bringing significant economic and cultural impact to the city and country.
Community fuels AWMM goal
The sell-out is seen as a strong endorsement from the running community and also highlights the vital role of sponsors and partners, whose ongoing investment has helped elevate the event to international standards.
Long-standing supporters, including adidas, the event’s technical partner, and title sponsor Sanlam, have played a crucial role in the marathon’s development and increased global visibility.
“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. adidas is privileged to support this historic journey alongside the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon teams and the incredible running community, ” says adidas South Africa Senior Brand Director Tom Brown.
This year’s 24,000 entries represent a significant increase from the 2024 numbers of 21,000.
“This milestone is a source of great pride – not just for Cape Town, but for Africa as a whole. Sanlam is honoured to share this responsibility with organisers, partners, and the City of Cape Town in showcasing Africa and her people on the world stage,” says Sanlam Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Shadi Chauke.
While marathon entry is now closed, registration remains open for the event’s shorter distances — including the 5km and 10km Peace Runs — as well as its growing trail series, featuring 11km, 22km, and 43km options. These events will take place on Saturday, 18 October, the day before the marathon.
