T. NashipaeEliud Kipchoge announces first stop of his ambitious World Tour
Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 09.03.26. | 22:00
The two-time Olympic marathon champion revealed that the idea of turning the world into a “running world” has been a long-standing dream
Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge has announced that the Cape Town Marathon will be the opening stop of his ambitious “Eliud’s Running World” project, a global tour that will see him run seven marathons across the seven continents.
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The 2026 Cape Town Marathon will take place on Sunday, 24 May, marking the start of Kipchoge’s two-year mission aimed at inspiring healthier lifestyles and uniting people worldwide through running.
The two-time Olympic marathon champion revealed that the idea of turning the world into a “running world” has been a long-standing dream.
Through the project, Kipchoge hopes to connect with running communities across the globe while spreading the message of discipline, health, and unity.
Over the next two years, the Kenyan icon plans to complete a marathon on each continent while interacting with fans and local athletes along the way.
Beyond sport, the tour will also raise funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, which focuses on environmental conservation and improving access to education in underserved communities.
For Kipchoge, starting the journey in Cape Town carries special meaning.
“Africa is where my journey as a runner began and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted.
To start this World Tour in Cape Town is very special. It is about celebrating the strength of African running and inspiring the next generation.
To race my first ever marathon on the African continent holds deep meaning for me. I cannot wait!” he said.
The Cape Town Marathon has grown into one of the most prominent races on the international running calendar, attracting elite athletes and recreational runners from across the world.
Organisers expect more than 27,000 runners to line up for the 2026 edition, reflecting the event’s rapid growth and the rising global interest in Africa’s premier marathon.
The race is currently bidding to join the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, a move that could make it the first marathon in Africa to earn the coveted Major status.
Cape Town Marathon CEO Clark Gardner said hosting Kipchoge for his first marathon on the African continent represents a defining moment for the race.
“Eliud represents the very best of what running can inspire. To see him race our streets, meet our communities and engage with young runners across the city will be incredibly powerful.
Moments like this remind us what is possible when the world’s greatest athletes connect with the places and people that shaped the sport,” Gardner said.
Kipchoge is expected to reveal the next destinations of his global tour later this week.