Kipchoge’s global running mission begins in Cape Town

Eliud Kipchoge/ FILE

After unveiling his ambitious world marathon tour last year, Kenyan distance running icon and two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge will launch the campaign in South Africa at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon set for May 24.

‎The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will serve as the opening chapter of Eliud’s new World Tour, a bold series of seven marathons across all continents designed to inspire communities and unite the world through the simple, powerful act of running.

‎‎For years, it has been Kipchoge’s dream to turn the world into a running world.

‎‎Over the next two years, the five-time Berlin Marathon champion will attempt to complete a marathon on each of the seven continents, using the global journey to inspire people to embrace healthier lifestyles while celebrating the universal language of distance running.

‎‎The initiative will also raise funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, which focuses on environmental conservation and expanding access to education in underserved communities.

‎‎For Kipchoge, launching the tour in Cape Town carries deep emotional significance.

‎‎“Africa is where my journey as a runner began and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted,” Kipchoge said.

‎‎“To start this World Tour in Cape Town is very special. It is about celebrating the strength of African running and inspiring the next generation. To race my first-ever marathon on the African continent holds deep meaning for me. I cannot wait,” he added.

‎‎The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has rapidly carved out a reputation as one of the rising jewels on the global road running calendar, drawing elite athletes and thousands of recreational runners from across the world to the scenic streets of Cape Town each year.

‎‎In 2026, more than 27,000 runners are expected to line up on the start line.

‎‎The event is currently a candidate for inclusion in the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, with ambitions of delivering Africa its first major and creating a global stage where African athletes can compete and triumph on home soil.

‎‎Race CEO Clark Gardner said welcoming the marathon legend to Cape Town will be a defining moment for both the race and the continent’s running community.

‎‎“Eliud represents the very best of what running can inspire. To see him race our streets, meet our communities, and engage with young runners across the city will be incredibly powerful,” Gardner said.

‎‎“Moments like this remind us what is possible when the world’s greatest athletes connect with the places and people that shaped the sport.”