Get ready for the 2026 Comrades Marathon on June 14, where 21,633 runners will tackle the 85.77km “Up Run” from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, featuring thrilling races with Gerda Steyn aiming for her fourth consecutive win and a wide-open men’s field, alongside extensive logistical support and equal prize money for top finishers. Picture: Google Gemini
It’s that time again when hordes of runners from all around the world flock to KwaZulu-Natal. On June 14, they will take part in the Ultimate Human Race: the iconic Comrades Marathon.
With exactly one week to go before the gruelling "Up Run" from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, anticipation has reached a fever pitch for the pinnacle event of South African road running.
Outside of South Africa, many athletes regard a standard 42.2km marathon as the ultimate achievement. In South Africa, however, the two biggest blockbusters on the road running calendar are ultra-marathons. In April, runners tackle the 56km Two Oceans Marathon. Then in June comes the big one: Comrades.
Depending on the route, Comrades normally measures somewhere between 85km and 90km, varying slightly each year. For 2026, the official route will measure 85.77km. Weather forecasts are looking promising, with a minimum temperature of 15°C expected in Durban and a maximum of 21°C in Pietermaritzburg. These are just about the most ideal conditions you can hope for along the route, though it may still feel a tad warm for the international contingent.
