2027 Comrades launched despite ongoing feud

Despite a feud with Athletics South Africa (ASA) and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Athletics, the Comrades Marathon Association proceeded with the launch of the 2027 event in Durban on Wednesday. The organizers have started preparations for the 100th race of the historic event next year. ASA issued a statement on Tuesday night, saying they did not sanction the 2027 race, and members of the Association voted not to re-affiliate with KZN Athletics.

The Comrades Association Chairperson, Mark Leathers, said they would make next year's race a success despite not recognizing the regulatory framework governing athletics. He described the 100th running of the Comrades Marathon as a massive milestone and a start of something exciting in the second century of the greatest human race.

The race will be a 90-kilometre run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Next year's event is more than a race; it's about honoring every runner, volunteer, supporter, partner, and leader who has carried the race forward across generations. A special logo for the 100th edition was unveiled, emphasizing the celebration of the race's legacy.

Since 1996, the Comrades Marathon has raised more than R84 million for charity, with last year's race attracting 22,000 participants. The organizers aim to allow 26,000 runners to be part of the centenary race in 2027.