Cape Town Marathon sold out! Here's what you need to know

Cape Town’s marathon dreams just hit another milestone. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially sold out its 24,000 marathon entries for 2025 — the third year running — putting the city on the cusp of becoming Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major.  

Achieving this status would place the city's marathon among the six most prestigious road races in the world, alongside iconic events in New York, London, Berlin, Boston, Chicago, and Tokyo. 

“This is more than just a sell-out,” says Sanlam Cape Town Marathon CEO Clark Gardner. “It’s a statement: Africa is ready to take its place on the global stage.”

With the race locked in for Sunday, 19 October 2025, the pressure is on to deliver a seamless event and tick the final box for Major status in 2026 — a move that could bring more than 20,000 international visitors to the Mother City every year.

Africa is already on the map for producing world-class runners - recognition for hosting them is long overdue. Now more than ever the spotlight’s on more than just the runners, as Cape Town’s streets come alive for everyone. So if you’re not racing, you can still be part of the action.

Spectator’s Guide: How to Catch the Action

Consider these best viewing spots, but you can cheer from any point along the race route, which features 15 dedicated refreshment stations strategically placed throughout the city. You won't want to miss the high energy and epic crowd support along the city’s most scenic streets. Here’s where to position yourself on the day:

• Start Line: Fritz Sonnenberg Road, Green Point

Early birds can catch the elite athletes at the start (first wave sets off at 6 am).

• Beach Road, Sea Point Promenade

Prime spot for cheering with a sea view — plus easy access to coffee shops for those sunrise flat whites.

• Kloof Street & Orange Street, Gardens

Join the morning buzz near iconic Table Mountain views and grab brunch while you wait.

• Rondebosch Common along Milner Road  

A relaxed, family-friendly spot with wide open space and great visibility. Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy the community atmosphere. 

• District Six & Salt River

High-energy community zones with music and vibrant local support. Bring your vuvuzela.

• Finish Line: Vlei Road adjacent to the DHL stadium

Grab your spot in the stands and witness the emotion at the finish line. Expect live commentary, food trucks, and good vibes.

ALSO SEE: Cape Town's 11 Best winter events to stay fit 

Road Closures

Roads across the city will be closed from early Sunday morning. Check the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon website for the whole map and plan. Walk, cycle, or use MyCiTi to get around.

Events All Weekend

Missed your entry to the main race? Entries for the 5km and 10km Peace Runs remain open until 26 September 2025 or until they sell out -  as do entries for the popular trail events (11km, 22km, and 43km). There is also the Marathon Expo for all things related to running. 

• Saturday, 18 October:

Catch the Peace Runs (5km & 10km) and Trail Runs (11km, 22km, 43km) at the same start/finish hub in Green Point. Family-friendly and festive.

• Marathon Expo: 16-18 October.

Held at CTICC, the expo is open to runners and the public. Expect merch, sponsor activations, and athlete meet-and-greets.

One Step from Making History

All eyes are on Cape Town this October — and every runner, spectator, and supporter plays a part. If the city delivers a world-class event in 2025, it could make history as Africa’s first World Marathon Major in 2026.

So whether you’re lacing up, lining the streets and cheering from the sidelines, this city-wide celebration belongs to all of us. Be part of something big? See you on the streets!