Cape Town has just secured its place on the global sporting stage in a way that few cities ever do.

On 10 June 2026, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was officially confirmed as an Abbott World Marathon Major, becoming the first race on the African continent to achieve this prestigious status.

For runners, this is the equivalent of receiving an Olympic invitation. For Cape Town, it is recognition that the city now stands alongside some of the world’s most famous marathon destinations.

The Cape Town Marathon joins an elite group that includes the marathons in Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York City, Tokyo and Sydney. Cape Town now becomes the eighth member of this exclusive club.

For those of us who live here, it feels like a proud moment. We have always known that Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but now the international running community has officially recognised it too.

The road to Major status has been years in the making. Race organisers had to meet strict international standards covering everything from race operations and athlete experience to safety, sustainability and participation numbers. After successfully passing the final evaluation during the 2026 event, Cape Town received the news runners across Africa had been hoping for.

What makes this achievement even more significant is what it means for African runners. Until now, anyone wanting to complete a World Marathon Major had to travel overseas. Now there is a Major on African soil, making the dream more accessible for thousands of runners across the continent.

The impact will extend far beyond race weekend. The event is expected to attract more international visitors, boost tourism and inject hundreds of millions of rand into the local economy. Organisers estimate that the marathon could contribute around R800 million through travel, accommodation and related spending.

As someone who has taken part in the Cape Town Marathon weekend events and regularly runs local races, I have seen first-hand how the city comes alive. The crowds, the scenery, the atmosphere and the incredible backdrop of Table Mountain create an experience unlike anywhere else.

The first official Abbott World Marathon Major in Cape Town will take place on 23 May 2027, and demand for entries is expected to be huge.

For Cape Town, this is more than a sporting achievement. It is a statement that Africa belongs at the highest level of global marathon running.

And what a city to lead the way.