Other News
ASA distances itself from 100th Comrades Marathon─── MORGAN PIEK 11:00 Wed, 19 Aug 2026
Athletics South Africa (ASA) has confirmed the 100th edition of the Comrades Marathon has not been sanctioned by the national athletics governing body.
In a statement, ASA advised its member federations, affiliated clubs, athletes, technical officials, partners and the public the iconic ultra-marathon does not have its approval to take place under the athletics governing structures. The decision follows what ASA described as extensive engagements with the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA), together with KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA).
However, the organisers have not met the requirements needed for the race to receive official sanctioning in terms of the constitutions, rules and regulations of KZNA, ASA and World Athletics.
Gerda Steyn of Bothaville winning the 2023 Comrades Marathon. photo: X
At the heart of the dispute is the governance structure of athletics in South Africa. Article 7.3 of the World Athletics Constitution states that there can only be one recognised member federation in each country or territory. ASA is the recognised World Athletics member federation for South Africa.
ASA said it fully supports KZNA in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities as the recognised provincial federation overseeing athletics in KwaZulu-Natal.
The national body stressed all athletics and road-running events in South Africa are expected to operate within the established governance framework and comply with the relevant rules and regulations.
Piet Wiersma of the Netherlands. Photo: X
“These requirements apply equally to all event organisers and cannot be selectively applied or disregarded,” ASA said.
As a result, ASA has formally distanced itself from the organisation, administration and running of the 100th Comrades Marathon, confirming that the event was not authorised or sanctioned through KZNA.
The development casts a shadow over what was expected to be a landmark edition of one of the world’s most famous ultra-marathons, with the 100th running carrying significant historical importance for the event and the sport.
Comrades Marathon runners. Photo: X
ASA said its priority remains protecting athletes, clubs, officials and other stakeholders while ensuring that athletics in South Africa is administered in line with the applicable regulations.
KZNA, meanwhile, remains open to further discussions with event organisers, provided they recognise the authority of the structures established under the ASA Constitution and are willing to meet the necessary governance and sanctioning requirements.
