Ethiopia completes clean sweep at Cape Town Marathon

By Charles Baloyi
24th May 2026

Ethiopia produced a dominant performance at the Cape Town Marathon on Sunday morning, claiming victory in both the men’s and women’s races.

The race, part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate series, attracted some of the biggest names in long-distance running, with Ethiopia’s Huseyidin Mohamed storming to victory in 2:04:55, smashing the previous course record of 2:08:16 by countryman Abdisa Tola Adera in 2024.

Ethiopia continued their dominance as Yihunilign Adane finished second in 2:04:59, while Kenya’s Kalipus Lomwai claimed third place in 2:05:06 in what was regarded as the fastest marathon ever run on African soil.

Speaking to SABC Sport after the race, Mohamed thanked the organisers for inviting him to compete in such a world-class event.

“I smashed the course record in Africa, and this is very special for me,” said a relieved Mohamed.

“I am happy to race in Africa and the course was great. We should run more races in Africa every year."

Kenyan marathon legend and multiple Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge, competing in Africa for the first time in his career, finished 16th in 2:16:29, while three-time CT Marathon champion Stephen Mokoka was the first South African home, placing 13th in 2:10:48.

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The women’s race was also controlled by Ethiopia, with Dera Dida Yami producing a strong performance to win in 2:23:18, missing out on Glenrose Xaba’s course record of 2:22:22.

Speaking through an interpreter, Yami said she hopes to return next year to challenge the course record.

“This was a very special race for me because I won it on my home continent in South Africa,” said Yami.

“I felt confident around the 36km mark and decided to push for the win. I dedicate this victory to all Africans and congratulate the organisers for hosting a world-class race.

“My goal was to break the course record, but it was not my day. With better preparations, I will come back next year and try again."

Her compatriot Mestawut Fikir finished second in 2:23:46, while Waganesh Amare completed an all-Ethiopian podium in 2:23:57.

Last year’s edition of the marathon was cancelled because of bad weather conditions, but this year runners enjoyed perfect conditions under clear skies as thousands of spectators lined the streets of the Mother City from 8 am.