The countdown to the comrades marathon has begun
Messages of encouragement
Alain Delais - General Manager
Message from the General Manager
As we gather for the 99th running of this iconic event, we do so with immense pride, gratitude and excitement. The Comrades Marathon brand is stronger than ever, continuing to grow in stature both in South Africa and internationally. Equally encouraging is the ongoing strength of road running, a sport that unites communities, inspires individuals and promotes healthy lifestyles across the globe.
The success of the Comrades Marathon is built on the support of many people and organisations who share our vision and passion. I extend my sincere appreciation to all our sponsors and commercial partners for their unwavering commitment to the race. Their investment, innovation and enthusiasm continue to enhance the Comrades Marathon experience for runners, supporters and spectators alike. I would also like to thank the eThekwini Municipality, Msunduzi Municipality, Mkhambathini Municipality and SANRAL for their outstanding partnership and support. Together with our stakeholders, government structures, emergency services, law enforcement agencies and service providers, they play a vital role in delivering this world-class event.
Special thanks go to our dedicated Race Organising Committee, CMA Board, staff members, sub-committees and 6 000 passionate volunteers. Their professionalism, expertise and commitment ensure every aspect of the race is planned and delivered to the highest standard.
This year has brought a number of exciting developments. Working closely with our sponsors and partners, we have introduced new initiatives designed to enhance the experience for runners and supporters. Our digital platforms continue to evolve, providing greater access to information, engagement and race content than ever before.
The 2026 race also marks a major milestone in our broadcasting journey. We are proud to deliver what promises to be one of the most comprehensive broadcasts in Comrades history, including the race being streamed live on YouTube for the first time. Combined with enhanced social media coverage, expanded video content and innovative digital storytelling, we are reaching more audiences than ever and showcasing the Comrades Marathon to the world in exciting new ways.
As always, race day will be filled with the traditions that make the Comrades Marathon so special: the stirring sound of Chariots of Fire, the emotional singing of Shosholoza, the Last Post, Max Trimborn's iconic cock-crow, and the unforgettable atmosphere created by thousands of runners and supporters lining the route for the 50th Up Run between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. These moments connect generations of runners and remind us why this race remains one of the world's most cherished sporting events.
Good luck to all our runners. Run safe, run strong and enjoy every moment of your Comrades journey.
See you at the finish line.
Mark Leathers - Chairperson
From the Chairperson of the CMA Board
Dear Runners, Supporters and Friends of The Ultimate Human Race,
It is my great pleasure, on behalf of the Comrades Marathon Association, to welcome you to the 2026 Comrades Marathon, taking place on Sunday, 14 June 2026.
For more than a century, the Comrades Marathon has stood as a powerful symbol of courage, perseverance and unity. Each year, runners from across South Africa and around the world gather not only to test their limits, but to honour a legacy built on endurance, sportsmanship and the indomitable human spirit.
To every athlete on the start line: may your journey be filled with strength, purpose and belief. Whether you are chasing a medal, a personal milestone, or the simple triumph of finishing, you are part of something far greater than a race.
To the families, friends, volunteers, sponsors, officials and spectators who line the route and lift every runner with your encouragement, thank you. Your energy, generosity and unwavering support are the heartbeat of the Comrades Marathon.
As Chairperson of the Comrades Marathon Association, I wish all participants a safe, memorable and deeply rewarding race day. May the 2026 edition once again remind us why the Comrades Marathon is cherished as The Ultimate Human Race.
Mark Leathers
Chairperson
Comrades Marathon Association
Sue Forge - Race Director
From the CMA Race Director
The 2026 edition of the Comrades Marathon marks another chapter in one of the world’s most extraordinary endurance events; a race built on resilience, camaraderie and the indomitable spirit of every runner who earns the right to stand on the start line.
To every athlete who has qualified for this year’s Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg: Congratulations! Qualification for the Comrades Marathon is never guaranteed; it is earned through sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering commitment. Whether you are a first-time entrant chasing your maiden medal or a seasoned campaigner returning once more to The Ultimate Human Race, your journey to this start line deserves recognition.
This year’s race introduces several operational enhancements designed to improve runner safety, flow and the overall race-day experience, while preserving the traditions and unique character that make the Comrades Marathon so incredibly special. Our commitment remains focused on delivering a world-class event worthy of the athletes, volunteers, sponsors, officials, and supporters who bring it to life.
To the families, friends, volunteers, sponsors, officials, club members, communities, and spectators who line the route with the most remarkable energy and support, thank you. The atmosphere you create on race day is truly extraordinary, and your encouragement helps carry runners through every high and low along the route.
Beyond the race itself, the Comrades Marathon represents something far greater, a shared human experience that unites people across communities, generations, and nations. Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey, and we wish you a safe, memorable, and successful race.
Sue Forge
Race Director
Comrades Marathon
Deputy Mayor Mkhize to run 6th Comrades
Msunduzi Municipality's Deputy Mayor Mxolisi Mkhize says taking part in this year's Comrades Marathon from Durban to Pietermaritzburg will be a sign of bravery, resilience, dedication and passion for sport.
Meet the ROC: the Route Gurus
After more than a decade of looking after the Route Portfolio for the Comrades Marathon’s Race Organising Committee (ROC), convenors Ravin Sivraman and Braam Zaayman....
Legends and Landmarks of the Comrades Marathon Route
The Comrades Marathon route is far more than a road between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. It is lined with famous hills, historic landmarks and traditions that...
Meet the ROC: The Bent family
Ask Chris, Marlene and Brad Bent what it is they do as co-ordinators of the Refreshment Stations Portfolio on the Comrades Marathon’s Race Organising Committee, and their collective answer is that’s it...
A remarkable running partnership
For more than a century, two great KwaZulu-Natal institutions have travelled side by side — the legendary Comrades Marathon and The Witness, South Africa’s oldest continuously published newspaper.
Comrades Marathon "Up Run"
Route Map from Durban to Pietermaritzburg (~85.8 km)
Select a Landmark or Peak:
Start Map
End Map
Download the official Comrades Marathon app
Participant times, paces, estimates and places in real-time
Interactive Course Map & Live Map Tracking
Easy tracking of multiple participants at the same time
Push Notifications as progress is made on course
Event Info and Messaging
Live Leaderboards
Social Sharing & Notifications
