EThekwini Municipality Ready To Host 99th Comrades Marathon
DURBAN — EThekwini Municipality is fully prepared to welcome 21,600 athletes and an anticipated 65,000 spectators from across South Africa and around the world for the 99th Comrades Marathon this Sunday, 14 June.
Known as the “Ultimate Human Race,” this year’s event is an “up run,” requiring runners to tackle the challenging 86km journey from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
Boost for the Local Economy
The Comrades Marathon remains a massive economic driver for eThekwini. The influx of thousands of international and domestic visitors is set to significantly boost the local economy, benefiting the accommodation, transport, hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors. Small businesses are also expected to thrive over the marathon weekend, with approximately 1,300 temporary job opportunities created for the event.
City’s Operational Readiness
To ensure a seamless event, a comprehensive operational plan has been activated across multiple municipal directorates, ensuring a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.
- Waste Management: The Cleansing and Solid Waste Directorate, appointed as the official waste management service provider for the race, is working diligently to maintain cleanliness. On race day, cleaning teams will be deployed along the eThekwini section of the route—from the starting point at the Durban City Hall to Cato Ridge (R103)—to manage waste and recycling efficiently. Strategically placed waste receptacles will also encourage spectators to dispose of litter responsibly.
- Safety and Security: The safety of participants and spectators remains a top priority. Metro Police officers will be stationed at strategic locations and key gathering points along the route to manage crowds, assist with traffic flow, and ensure the event runs smoothly.
Fan Parks
To enhance the race-day experience, the Municipality will host an official Comrades Marathon Fan Park at the Kings Park Athletics Stadium from 04:30 to 17:30. The fan park will offer live race coverage, entertainment, interactive activities, and food vendors, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere for supporters.
Road Closures
The public is advised of the following road closures on Sunday, 14 June:
- Dr Pixley KaSeme Street
- Samora Machel Street / Joseph Nduli Road
- N3 West Off-Ramp to King Cetshwayo Highway: Contra-flow via 45th Cutting to the M13 and Cowies Hill.
- Josiah Gumede Road (Pinetown)
- M13: Through Kloof, Gillitts, and Old Main Road into Hillcrest.
- R103: Towards Cato Ridge via Doonrug Road.
All affected roads will reopen progressively once the final runner has safely cleared the respective section.
