Comrades Marathon to sever ties with Athletics South Africa — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
The Comrades Marathon, the world's oldest ultramarathon, will celebrate its 100th running in 2027 without affiliation to Athletics South Africa. Members voted to sever ties with KwaZulu-Natal Athletics, the provincial federation, and the national body. The decision follows a long-standing dispute over control and revenue.
The split formalizes a move that began over a year ago. Members initially sought to join Athletics South Africa directly but were rejected. The national federation's broadcast rights, which include Comrades, generated significant revenue. With Comrades leaving, the federation's income will decrease substantially. Read more culture coverage.
KwaZulu-Natal Athletics faces financial strain, with an estimated annual loss of 3 million rand (about $181,000). The federation also disputes 4 million rand (about $242,000) in owed levies. The race's independence is legally supported by a 2014 court ruling on cycling events. Related: Around the Bay Race Date and Distance Changes Announced.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Comrades Marathon to sever ties with Athletics South Africa?
The Comrades Marathon will run its 100th edition independently of South Africa's athletics federations. The Comrades Marathon, the world's oldest ultramarathon, will celebrate its 100th running in 2027 without affiliation to Athletics South Africa. Members voted to sever ties with KwaZulu-Natal Athletics, the provincial federation, and the national body. The decision follows a long-standing dispute over control and revenue.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 2, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated August 2, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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