Excitement builds for the 2025 Comrades Marathon in KwaZulu-Natal

Excitement is mounting ahead of the 2025 Comrades Marathon, which takes place on Sunday,  June 8, with organisers promising a "spectacle" that will set new records and reaffirm KwaZulu-Natal as a top destination for sport tourism.

This year’s down run, from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, has attracted the largest field in the event’s history, with at least 2 4000 runners expected at the start line – surpassing the previous down run record of 19 047 set in 2018.

KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority’s acting CEO, Sibusiso Gumbi, said the marathon remains a highlight on the province’s sporting calendar.

“I am delighted that the 2025 race will actually exceed pre-COVID figures,” Gumbi said.

“We’re optimistic that the event will inspire more people to explore KZN, whether they witness it roadside or onscreen.”

With all accommodation in Durban, Pietermaritzburg and surrounding areas expected to be fully booked, the marathon is expected to generate an economic impact of more than R600 million, including a direct spend of R275 million and the creation of at least 1800 jobs.

“The Comrades Marathon brings more visitors to our region than any other international sporting event,” said Gumbi.

“KZN has everything a tourist could wish for – from beaches and game reserves to the Drakensberg and vibrant urban culture.”

This year, a total of 22 677 runners have qualified, with 20% being women, and over 3 000 international runners signed up.

These include 1 282 from across Africa and 1 781 from outside the continent. Organisers estimate that at least 6 000 international visitors – including supporters and family members – will travel to KZN for the event.

Comrades Marathon Association general manager, Alain Dalais, said the record number of entries and expected crowd support points to an unforgettable race.

“It’s going to be a vibrant, memorable day for all involved,” he said. Several new race innovations promise to elevate the runner and spectator experience:

 A two-wave start, at 5:45am and 6:00am, to ease congestion and improve safety.

 A shorter route (approximately 89km) to accommodate roadworks at Umlaas Road Interchange.

 47 refreshment stations and multiple “fun and vibey” spectator zones.

 A new street finish in Durban, eliminating the need for runners to climb stairs at the finish.

 Club tents and gazebos will be located closer to the finish line to keep the energy alive.

“This format allows for a better vibe throughout the day and makes it easier for runners to enjoy their moment of glory,” said Dalais.

Top contenders will include defending champions Piet Wiersma (Netherlands) and Gerda Steyn (South Africa), alongside previous winners Tete Dijana, Edward Mothibi, and Alexandra Morozova (Russia). Popular personalities like comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is running his first Comrades, and rapper Kabelo Mabalane, is aiming for his 13th medal.

The race follows a bumper season for KZN tourism. The Comrades Marathon Expo from June 5 to 7 at the Durban Exhibition Centre is expected to draw 40 000 runners and supporters.

Brett Tungay, chairman of Fedhasa’s regional branch, said tourism optimism was high.

“The participation of international runners and local visitors is driving strong growth in the hospitality industry.” May and June have seen major events in KZN, including the Africa’s Travel Indaba, Isuzu Ironman, and Nedbank Soweto Derby, generating significant GDP boosts.

Upcoming events such as the Hollywood bets Durban July on July 5 will continue this momentum. Gumbi summed it up: “Sports tourism has proven to be a powerful driver for KZN’s visibility, vibrancy and economic growth.”