The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is officially confirmed as the first Abbott World Marathon Major to be hosted on African soil, marking a historic milestone for marathon running on the continent. Multiple reports state that the event has been granted “World Major” status—the highest-level recognition within the Abbott World Marathon Majors programme—placing it on marathon running’s biggest stage.

According to the available coverage, the confirmation follows the marathon’s selection for inclusion in the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, with the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon identified as the inaugural Major event in Africa. The reports also frame the development as a significant recognition of the marathon’s standing and capacity to host a top-tier international event.

While details such as timing, broader programme changes, and any additional commitments are not specified in the provided extracts, both outlets agree on the core point: the Cape Town Marathon’s Major status is confirmed, and it is the first such event in Africa.