Eliud Kipchoge to make historic debut marathon in Cape Town
By Joel Masibo, May 20, 2026Marathon icon Eliud Kipchoge is in Cape Town ahead of the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, where the celebrated Kenyan distance runner is poised to make history by competing in his first official marathon race on African soil. The race, which takes place on Sunday, May 24, 2026, has rapidly established itself as Africa’s premier marathon.
The multiple Olympic champion was warmly received at Cape Town International Airport on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, with city officials, race organisers, and media representatives turning out to welcome one of the most decorated figures in long-distance running.
His presence has significantly boosted global interest in the event, which is steadily rising in prominence as it continues its bid to be included among the Abbott World Marathon Majors, alongside London, Berlin, New York, and Tokyo.
Despite a glittering career that includes Olympic gold medals and a former world record, the 41-year-old has never before taken part in a full marathon on the African continent, making Sunday’s race a landmark moment.
Speaking on arrival, Kipchoge reflected on his roots, saying Africa remains central to his journey as an athlete and the foundation of his success. He noted that beginning his “World Tour” in Cape Town carries special meaning, as it celebrates African running excellence and aims to motivate the next generation.
He also described the occasion as deeply personal, emphasising his excitement to finally compete in a marathon on African soil. Kipchoge expressed admiration for South Africa’s sporting culture and the enthusiasm of local fans, adding that he hopes to inspire more people to take up running.
“Africa is where my journey as a runner began, and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted. To start this World Tour in Cape Town is very special. It is about celebrating the strength of African running and inspiring the next generation. Also, to race my first ever marathon on the African continent holds deep meaning for me, and I cannot wait!” said Kipchoge.
“I know South Africa is a really sporting nation, but I want to make more and more South Africans run. Above all, I want to run a beautiful race with all 27,000 people who have registered to participate in the marathon. It will be a beautiful day, it will be a historic day for all of us, to assemble as Africans and run together, go through the finishing line, and make Cape Town a World Major Marathon,” he added.
The marathon star further highlighted his desire to share a memorable race with the more than 27,000 participants expected, calling it a potentially historic day that unites athletes across the continent and strengthens Cape Town’s case as a future World Marathon Major.
Cape Town project
The Cape Town race will mark the opening event of Kipchoge’s ambitious “Eliud’s Running World” project, which aims to see him compete in seven marathons across seven continents over the next two years.
This year’s edition is expected to attract over 27,000 marathon runners and a total of about 44,500 participants across all distances, making it one of the largest road races ever staged in Africa.
Attention now turns to race day, where Kipchoge will line up against a highly competitive field, with both men’s and women’s course records under serious threat.
To claim victory, athletes will need to surpass the men’s record of 2:08:16 and the women’s mark of 2:22:22, set in 2024.
While now 41, Kipchoge still holds impressive pedigree, including his 2018 world record of 2:01:39 in Berlin, and his historic sub-two-hour run in Vienna in 2019, which, although unofficial, redefined marathon limits. He later improved his official world record to 2:01:09 in Berlin in 2022.