05/05/2026
PRESS RELEASE: An important update on prize money for Capital City Marathon athletes
The organisers of the Capital City Marathon wish to provide an important update to our top-performing athletes and the broader running community regarding the payout of the 2026 prize money.
Following the highly successful sixth edition of the marathon on 22 February 2026, we are currently awaiting the final anti-doping test results from the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS).
As per the strict compliance regulations governing official Comrades and Two
Oceans Marathon qualifiers, as well as our Abbott World Marathon Majors
accreditation status, no prize money can be disbursed until an official clearance is
received from SAIDS.
At present, these anti-doping results are still pending, and as a result, the prize funds
cannot yet be legally released to the winning athletes.
Race Director Mthoko Ndwandwe addressed the delay, "We understand and share the frustration of our top runners who have trained incredibly hard and are rightfully
eager to receive their winnings.”
“However, maintaining a clean, fair, and rigorously regulated sport is non-negotiable. The integrity of the Capital City Marathon is our highest priority, and we must adhere strictly to the protocols set forth by SAIDS.”
“We have secured all prize funds, and the moment we receive the official
clearance, payouts will be processed immediately."
The Capital City Marathon organisation remains in close communication with SAIDS
and will issue a subsequent update the moment the final anti-doping results are
delivered and verified.
We thank our athletes, sponsors, and wider running community for their continued
patience and understanding as we uphold the highest standards of athletics in
South Africa.
Ends/