Launch proceeds amid governance dispute
The Comrades Marathon Association formally launched the 2027 edition of the Comrades Marathon in Durban on 19 August 2026, pressing ahead with preparations for the 100th running of the ultramarathon despite an unresolved standoff with Athletics South Africa (ASA) and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Athletics. Association chairperson Mark Leathers framed the occasion as the start of a second century for the race, telling attendees that "the race to 2027 starts now, the countdown is on."
Sanctioning dispute deepens
ASA issued a statement the evening before the launch saying it did not sanction the 2027 race, a position that followed months of friction with the provincial federation. Association members had voted not to re-affiliate with KZN Athletics, leaving organizers operating outside the official athletics regulatory framework. ASA has since notified member federations, clubs, athletes, technical officials, partners and the public that the centenary event will not carry its sanction.
Race format and field size
Next year's race will follow the traditional 90-kilometre down-run route from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Organizers confirmed they will increase the entry limit to 26 000 runners for the centenary edition, up from approximately 22 000 participants in the 2026 race. A special logo commemorating the 100th running was unveiled at the Durban launch.
Charity footprint
Vice chairperson Nontuthuko Mashimane said the Comrades Marathon has raised more than R84 million for charity since 1996. This year's edition will support a broad portfolio of community-based projects spanning education, youth development, food security, health and social upliftment, reflecting the organisers' stated intention to tailor giving to local needs rather than apply a uniform approach.
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