The Comrades Marathon Association has officially launched the 2025 race, with administrators, sponsors, athletes, government officials, road running dignitaries and members of the media all gathering to celebrate the start of the organisation of this iconic race for next year.
The 2025 edition will follow the traditional Down Run, starting from Pietermaritzburg and finishing in Durban, covering approximately 89 kilometres.
Enhanced safety measures and support services will be in place, including medical assistance, refreshment stations, route marshals and law enforcement personnel.
“There is absolutely no doubt that the 2025 Comrades Marathon is going to be one of the most exciting editions of the world-famous ultra-marathon as we host the next Down Run in 214 days from today,” said Comrades Marathon Association Chairperson, Jeff Minnaar, at the launch of the 98th Comrades Marathon at Comrades House.
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CMA Marketing Manager, Delaine Cools unveiled the campaign slogan for next year’s race, which will is ‘More Than A Race – Isiko Mpilo’.
“The campaign slogan we have chosen this year speaks to the legacy of an event that has made its mark on a nation for more than 100 years,” said Minnaar. “Our annual race day has taken on a very different meaning for us as South Africans, with many people referring to it as Comrades Day. On this day, both runners and supporters are not just united in a road running event, but stand together in camaraderie and goodwill. Through this event, we are reminded of our commitment to standing together, collaborating, nation building and being a force for good. The Comrades Marathon is more than a race; it’s a testament to the indomitable human spirit and perseverance. We are excited to welcome runners from all corners of the world to this prestigious event. Isiko Mpilo!”
The 98th Comrades Marathon will be a Down Run on Sunday, 8 June 2025, starting at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall at 05h30 and finishing 12 hours later at Durban’s Peoples Park, with a race distance of approximately 89km. This will be the 49th Comrades Down Run.
CMA Acting Race & Operations Manager, Alain Dalais said: “Our team is dedicated to delivering an exceptional race experience. We encourage all participants to prepare thoroughly and embrace the journey.”
Entries will close on 9 December 2024 at 16h30. The total number of entries will be capped at 23,000.
Qualification for the 2025 Comrades Marathon is applicable from 10 June 2024 till 5 May 2025. The qualifying criteria for next year’s Comrades Marathon remain unchanged, requiring completion of a standard, officially timed 42.2km marathon in under 4 hours and 50 minutes, or a 56km ultra-marathon in under 6 hours and 45 minutes. The substitution process will run over the month of March and April 2025.
