NPC set to launch 2025 Soweto Marathon edition at the end of August

By Charles Baloyi
14th August 2025

Soweto Marathon organisers, the Non-Profit Company (NPC), will launch the 30th edition of the iconic race at the end of this month, spokesperson Jabu Mbuli confirmed to SABC Sport.

The launch venue is yet to be confirmed. Every year, speculation surfaces on whether the race will go ahead, but the NPC – which received nine out of 11 votes from the Soweto Athletics Club to administer this year’s event – has assured that the marathon is on.

It will now take place at the end of November, rather than on the originally planned 3 November date, due to the G20 Summit taking place at Nasrec from 21–22 November.

"As the organisers, we are definitely on track for the launch. We are not panicking; we have good relationships with all of our partners, and all I can say is - watch this space."

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Mbuli told the national broadcaster that the date change for the 42.2km, 21.1km, and 10km races was unavoidable, following the government’s directive to restrict access to the Nasrec precinct until after the G20 Summit in November.

The NPC’s message to athletes preparing for this year’s race is simple – keep training and get ready.

Mbuli explained that the NPC is stepping in as a temporary organiser in place of the Soweto Marathon Pty Ltd, until matters involving the Soweto Marathon Trust (SMT) are resolved.

"For everyone who wants to be part of this exciting event, my message is, train and look forward to the 30th edition of this special race.

"We will highlight the other details concerning the event during the launch later this month."

Founded by the Soweto Athletics Club in 1992, the race will go ahead as promised, despite this year’s delayed launch.

Traditionally held in early July, the official announcement will now happen at the end of August.

Mbuli assured that the later launch date will not disrupt the organisation of the race, nor affect entries or prize money.

While the Soweto Marathon Trust and NPC have been at odds over hosting rights, Mbuli maintains that there is no split in the organising structures.

He stressed that the NPC is acting on behalf of the Soweto Athletics Club as mandated, overseeing the race’s planning, logistics, and sponsorship for this year.