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The Nelson Mandela Foundation and Golazo have officially joined forces to launch the Nelson Mandela Marathon Global Running Series, a new international movement that aims to combine running with the values that defined Nelson Mandela’s legacy.
The first event in the series will take place in Cape Town on 18 October 2026, where an expected 20,000 runners will participate across the 5km, 10km, half-marathon and full marathon distances.
Organisers say the event is about more than competition. Instead, the focus is on unity, dignity, courage, justice, equality and freedom, values closely associated with Nelson Mandela’s life and leadership.
Running With Purpose
Speaking on the launch, Dr Mbongiseni Buthelezi, Chief Executive of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, said the initiative is designed to bring people together during a time of growing division across the world.
“The Nelson Mandela Marathon Global Running Series is not simply about sport. It is about carrying forward the values that Madiba stood for and inviting people to move together in the spirit of dignity, unity, courage and justice,” he said.
“At a time when the world feels increasingly divided, this movement reminds us that even the smallest step can connect us to something greater than ourselves.”
The inaugural event will be hosted against the backdrop of Cape Town and marks the beginning of a broader global vision aimed at connecting people across cultures, generations and borders through movement and shared values.
International Expansion Planned From 2027
The full programme for the 2026 event is expected to be unveiled on 19 May 2026.
From 2027, the Nelson Mandela Marathon Global Running Series will expand internationally, inviting cities around the world to become part of the initiative.
Bob Verbeeck, CEO of Golazo, described the project as one of the most meaningful ventures the organisation has been involved in.
“The Nelson Mandela Marathon Global Running Series is all about values and not about competition. Running has always been one of the most inclusive sports,” he said.
“With this series, we want to pay tribute to Nelson Mandela and honour the values which he taught the world.”
Cities, federations, clubs and strategic partners interested in joining the movement have been invited to make contact with organisers.
For more information, visit Nelson Mandela Marathon.
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