Comrades Marathon set to deliver major economic boost for KZN

THE Comrades Marathon 2026 taking place on Sunday is set to give KZN and eThekwini an economic boost in the hospitality and tourism sector.

- YOGASHEN PILLAY

THE 2026 Comrades Marathon is expected to provide a significant boost to KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism and hospitality sectors, with thousands of athletes, spectators and visitors descending on the province ahead of Sunday’s iconic race.

This year’s event is an “Up Run” featuring an 86km route that begins at the Durban City Hall and ends at the Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg, with the course cut-off strictly enforced at 12 hours.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Reverend Musa Zondi, on Thursday said the Comrades Marathon remains one of the province’s most important economic catalysts, generating substantial spending across a range of sectors.

“Every year, the race attracts tens of thousands of runners, supporters, technical officials, media representatives and visitors from across South Africa and around the world,” Zondi said.

“These visitors spend money on accommodation, restaurants, transport, fuel, retail, entertainment and tourism experiences throughout the province.”

According to Zondi, the race’s economic impact extends well beyond race day, as many participants arrive several days before the event and remain in KwaZulu-Natal afterwards to explore local attractions.

“Many participants arrive several days before the event and remain afterwards to explore the province,” he said.