Nearly 22,000 Runners, R925,000 for the Winner: Everything to Know Before the 2026 Comrades Marathon

South Africa’s most iconic endurance event returns this Sunday as thousands of athletes prepare to tackle the 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon, a race renowned worldwide for pushing runners to their physical and mental limits.

Approximately 21,633 runners are expected to line up in Durban for the 2026 event, which will once again take the form of an “Up Run” – a demanding journey from Durban to Pietermaritzburg covering 85.777 kilometres.

Widely known as “The Ultimate Human Race”, the Comrades Marathon remains one of the largest and most prestigious ultra-marathons in the world. This year’s race is expected to draw close to 22,000 participants, making it one of the biggest sporting events on South Africa’s calendar.

“Ska Fela Moya” Inspires 2026 Runners

Organisers have adopted the slogan “Ska Fela Moya” for the 2026 edition, a Setswana phrase meaning don’t give up or never lose hope.

The motto reflects the spirit of an event that demands extraordinary resilience, determination and mental toughness. Throughout the gruelling route, runners will be required to overcome steep climbs, fatigue, muscle pain and moments of self-doubt before reaching the finish line in Pietermaritzburg.

For many participants, crossing the finish line is considered a victory in itself.

Massive Logistics Behind South Africa’s Biggest Ultra-Marathon

Beyond the athletes, the Comrades Marathon represents a huge logistical operation involving race officials, medical teams, volunteers, support crews and traffic authorities.

Managing and supporting thousands of runners across more than 85 kilometres requires months of planning, with hydration stations, medical facilities, security personnel and transport services all playing a crucial role in ensuring a successful race day.

Nearly R1 Million Awaits the Winners

While thousands will compete simply to finish, elite athletes will be chasing significant prize money.

The men’s and women’s champions will each receive R925,000, with substantial rewards extending through the top 10 finishers. Overall, millions of rand will be distributed among the leading competitors, adding extra incentive to an already fiercely contested race.

Everything to Know Before the 2026 Comrades Marathon (Image: Comrades Marathon)

Motorists Warned of Heavy Traffic and Winter Hazards

Ahead of Sunday’s event, the Department of Transport has urged motorists, runners and spectators travelling between Durban and Pietermaritzburg to exercise caution.

Authorities have warned that major infrastructure upgrades along key routes, combined with winter driving conditions, could result in severe traffic congestion and challenging road conditions throughout the day.

Motorists are being advised to plan their journeys carefully, allow extra travel time and remain vigilant while travelling along the race corridor.

Countdown to a Historic Milestone

As the Comrades Marathon approaches its landmark 100th edition in 2027, this year’s race carries added significance. Thousands of runners will attempt to write their own chapter in the event’s storied history, while spectators across South Africa and beyond prepare to witness another unforgettable test of endurance.

With nearly 22,000 athletes set to answer the starter’s call in Durban on Sunday morning, the only certainty is that the road to Pietermaritzburg will once again produce stories of triumph, heartbreak and extraordinary human determination.