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Cape Town becomes first African World Marathon Major

Cape Town has been added to the prestigious World Marathon Majors, the elite series said on Wednesday, making it the first African race in the circuit.

It joins London, New York, Boston, Chicago, Berlin, Sydney and Tokyo among the most iconic races in global distance running.

“The unique culture, the welcome from the people of the city and the wonderful setting Cape Town provides will bring a whole new dimension to our series,” Dawna Stone, chief executive of Abbott World Marathon Majors, which oversees the circuit, said.

“I know runners in Africa and across the world will have a phenomenal experience at this race.”

This year’s edition of the marathon in May featured double Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge, 41, in his first marathon on African soil. The Kenyan finished 16th in 2:13:29.

Ethiopian Mohamed Esa won the race in a course record of 2:04:55, the fastest marathon time recorded in Africa.

Compatriot Yihunilign Adane was second in 2:04:59, while Kenyan Kalipus Lomwai placed third in 2:05:06, with all three athletes setting personal bests.

Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis welcomed the decision, saying it followed “many years of hard work” to secure inclusion in the Majors.

Organisers said Wednesday the Major status is expected to deliver a significant economic boost to Cape Town, including about $49 million in spending on travel, accommodation and meals.

The next edition of the Cape Town Marathon will take place on May 23, 2027.

In 2025, the marathon was cancelled after high winds caused safety concerns for runners.

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