The Nelson Mandela Marathon is carrying Madiba's values forward

Nelson Mandela believed in the power of sport to inspire hope, unite people and change the world. That belief is the starting point for the inaugural Nelson Mandela Marathon, taking place in Cape Town on Sunday, 18 October 2026.

Created by Golazo in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, the event was born from a desire to keep Mandela's legacy alive through participation and action. It invites people to come together through running and carry forward the values that defined his life: dignity, courage, justice, equality, solidarity and freedom.

That invitation is expressed in three words: Rise. Remember. Run. Rise for equality and justice. Remember those whose courage and sacrifices helped shape our freedom. Run together with a commitment to carrying those values into the future.

Cape Town provides a meaningful setting for this first edition. Starting at the Grand Parade, the marathon takes runners through places that hold the stories of the city and its people, including District Six, Parliament, the Company's Garden and Bo-Kaap, before continuing towards the coast. Along the way, participants are invited to reflect on the history beneath their feet and the responsibility we share in shaping what comes next.

The event also brings together a new marathon and an established Cape Town running tradition. Through a partnership with Itheko Sport Athletic Club, the Slave Route Challenge joins the programme, continuing its commitment to honouring the enslaved communities whose lives and contributions helped shape the city. Established in 2011, it shares the marathon's values of remembrance, dignity and freedom.

Together, these events connect personal achievement with a shared purpose. Whether completing a first race, supporting a fellow runner or cheering from the roadside, everyone has a part to play in a day built around community and connection.

Cape Town will also mark the beginning of the Nelson Mandela Marathon Global Running Series, with the ambition of bringing this movement to communities around the world. All profits from the event will be donated to the Nelson Mandela Foundation, helping carry its work forward beyond race day.

Be part of the first edition

The Nelson Mandela Marathon takes place on Sunday, 18 October 2026, with routes starting at the Grand Parade in Cape Town and finishing on Darling Street.

The programme includes the 42km Nelson Mandela Marathon, 21km Slave Route Challenge Half Marathon, 10km Run, 10km Fun Walk, and 5km Fun Run & Walk. The shorter distances are sold out, with entries currently available only for the full marathon. Supporters are encouraged to join the race day atmosphere and cheer participants along the route.

To enter and find routes and event information, visit nelsonmandelamarathon.com or follow @nelsonmandelamarathon on Instagram.

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