The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially secured its place among the world’s most prestigious road races, becoming the first African event to join the Abbott World Marathon Majors series from 2027.

The announcement, made by the Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) on Wednesday, confirms that the Cape Town race will become the eighth member of the elite global marathon series when it takes place on 23 May 2027.

The event joins an exclusive group that includes the Tokyo Marathon, Boston Marathon, London Marathon, Sydney Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon and New York City Marathon.

The milestone follows Cape Town’s successful completion of a rigorous evaluation process during the 2026 race, which assessed everything from athlete experience and race operations to safety standards and elite competition.

AbbottWMM Chief Executive Officer, Dawna Stone, described the decision as a landmark moment for both the series and the continent.

“It gives me huge pleasure to welcome Cape Town to the family,” Stone said, praising the race’s growth, the dedication of organisers and the unique experience offered by the city.

She said Africa’s first Major would bring a new dimension to the global marathon series and provide runners from around the world with a memorable racing experience.

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon CEO Clark Gardner said the achievement was a historic moment that belonged to generations of African runners.

“To join the Abbott World Marathon Majors as Africa’s first is a profound honour. This is a moment generations of African runners have waited for,” Gardner said.

The announcement also moves runners one step closer to a new challenge within the AbbottWMM programme. Cape Town will now count towards the future Nine Star Medal, which is expected to include a ninth race should the Shanghai Marathon successfully complete its final evaluation later this year.

Organisers confirmed that the existing Six Star Medal programme will remain in place for runners completing the original six major marathons.

The elevation of the Cape Town race is expected to boost international tourism, attract thousands of additional runners and spectators, and further cement Cape Town as one of the world’s premier marathon destinations.