‘Unprecedented interest’: Many Comrades runners must accept they will miss out
On the opening day of the general entry ballot, the online system indicated there were more than 40,000 people waiting in the queue.
The 2026 Comrades Marathon, South Africa's most popular road race, sold out its 22,000 available entries in under 10 hours, causing frustration among many runners. For the 2027 race, the organizers have introduced a ballot system to make the selection process more fair. Interested individuals must enter a lucky draw, with separate entry windows for CMA members and people who have completed the race at least nine times.
Both entry categories were sold out in less than a week. Organizers are concerned that many runners might miss out on the opportunity to participate in this prestigious event. Race director Sue Forge stated that the interest in the race is at an all-time high, with over 40,000 people waiting in a queue during the opening day of the ballot window.
However, the organizers have not disclosed the actual application numbers due to the possibility of creating unnecessary anxiety among runners. Forge also mentioned that expanding the entry limit beyond the 28,000 allowed would be challenging due to the unique characteristics of the Comrades Marathon, such as its ultra-marathon distance, route between two cities, and significant impact on the province during the race day.
Any further increase in future years would need to be carefully assessed, considering factors like route capacity, daylight hours, and the safe management of spectators. The 2027 Comrades Marathon will take place between Pietermaritzburg and Durban on 13 June.
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