The 2025 Comrades Marathon will follow the traditional Down Run, beginning in Pietermaritzburg and ending in Durban.
Renowned for its challenging course and rich heritage, the marathon will follow the traditional Down Run, starting in Pietermaritzburg and finishing in Durban, covering an approximate distance of 89 kilometres.
In unveiling this year’s campaign slogan, “More Than A Race – Isiko Mpilo,” CMA Marketing Manager Delaine Cools emphasised the event’s significance: “It’s a life-changing experience, a pilgrimage of sorts, and a coming together of a global family of runners who are committed to good sportsmanship and a shared passion for running.”
The CMA said its dedicated to making the 2025 Comrades an unforgettable experience, complete with enhanced safety measures, medical support, and law enforcement along the route.
CMA Chairperson Jeff Minnaar said: “The Comrades Marathon is more than a race; it’s a testament to the indomitable human spirit and perseverance.”
“On this day, both runners and supporters are not just united in a road-running event but stand together in camaraderie and goodwill.”
Entries for the 2025 event are open for Green Number Club athletes, who have completed the race multiple times, from November 6 until December 9, 2024, and for other entrants from November 13.
Entries are capped at 23,000 and will close when the limit is reached. Entry fees remain at R1,200 for South Africans, R2,000 for African entrants, and R4,500 for international participants.
Green Number Club members receive priority registration, with entry fees waived for runners holding 25 or more Comrades medals.
The 2025 race will also see a prize money increase of 10%, with the male and female winners each set to receive R874,000. The total prize pool exceeds R7.6 million, including incentives from Cell C for pacing and time records.
Additionally, the CMA Runners’ Relief Fund will offer disadvantaged athletes a 50% reduction on entry fees, providing greater access to the race.
This year’s official charities include the Childhood Cancer Foundation SA and Childline KwaZulu-Natal, among others, as the marathon continues its tradition of making a meaningful impact beyond the race.
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