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The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has voted to continue operating independently of both Athletics South Africa (ASA) and KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA), marking a significant moment in the history of the world's oldest and largest ultramarathon.
While the governance decision has generated plenty of discussion within South African running circles, the message from the CMA is simple: the race is on, training continues as normal, and preparations for the historic 100th Comrades Marathon are already well underway – with runners at the heart of all plans.
More than 1 000 CMA members participated in a Special General Meeting on Saturday, 1 August, where members voted to endorse a ‘Comrades-first’ approach to the future governance of the race.
According to CMA Chairperson Mark Leathers, the decision reflects what members believe is in the best long-term interests of the iconic race.
“Our members have once again confirmed their preference for the CMA to chart its own course. We are confident that we have the resources, experience, and commitment to continue presenting a world-class event, and we are excited about next year's Centenary Edition of the race on 13 June 2027.
“The CMA remains willing to engage constructively with all parties for the betterment of the sport, the event, and the broader running community, and the door remains open for further discussions with KZNA and ASA.”
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What does this mean for runners?
For now, very little changes.
The CMA says entries, qualification races, and preparations for the 2027 event continue as planned while discussions with ASA continue around sanctioning arrangements and athlete recognition. Importantly, runners are advised to keep their ASA licences active for now until further clarity is provided.
Running analyst Stuart Mann believes the decision could ultimately benefit both the race and participants.
“From a runner's perspective, qualification races remain unchanged, training continues as normal, and the Centenary Edition remains the major focus,” says Mann.
While Comrades 2027 runners will no longer require a running club licence, Mann says that fears about this ‘killing the club system’ are unwarranted:
“Most races will maintain the status quo and remain affiliated to ASA. Most Comrades runners will run several marathons and other races in 2027 in the build-up to Comrades. Temporary licenses are expensive, so it makes economic sense to buy a license for these races even if you don’t need one for Comrades.”
He says those concerned about World Athletics recognition need not worry, as Comrades is a non-standard distance, and therefore doesn’t count towards world ranking points: “Elite athletes are running for the richest ultra marathon prize purse on the globe and the prestige that is associated with Comrades.”
Opportunities in new development
Mann believes the CMA's independence could allow more of the race's revenue to be reinvested directly into the event, athlete development, communities and future innovations, while also creating opportunities for stronger commercial partnerships and broader international exposure.
“Comrades owning its own broadcast rights is another major boon for sponsors,” he says. “It also means that the sponsors of athletes are guaranteed international and online exposure. I predict the Comrades will grow its sponsorship base ahead of the 2027 event.”
Another reality is that, with the CMA no longer having to pay levies, Mann says they could ring fence this money to support athletics development:
“I expect that this will have a far greater impact than existing development activities, with Comrades likely to earmark a significant amount for the development of the sport.”
At the same time, Mann noted that the CMA has consistently indicated its willingness to work alongside ASA and KZNA where it benefits the sport, making continued dialogue an important part of the next chapter.
Eyes firmly on the centenary
Perhaps the biggest takeaway for everyday runners is that the countdown to one of the most anticipated races in Comrades history has officially begun.
The 100th Comrades Marathon takes place on Sunday, 13 June 2027, and is expected to attract thousands of runners and supporters from around the world for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of South Africa's most iconic road race.
So if you've been waiting for a sign to lace up your running shoes, this might just be it.
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