Two factions clash over rights to host the Soweto Marathon

The SMT announced a new board that includes two Athletics South Africa (ASA) members, Sello Khunou and Ishe Sathekge, who were previously expelled from athletics activities.

Khunou returns as chairman, with Sethege reinstated as secretary. 

Other board members include Prince Jali, Thuli Makhetha, Matsebe Maila, Nonhlanhla Moloto, Stan Itshegetseng, Watson Shelelmbe, James Masilo, and Steven Khanyile.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Itshegetseng, who claims to be the SMT’s spokesperson, insisted that the Soweto Marathon is the sole property of the Trust and that only they have the legal authority to stage the race.

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He accused the rival NPO of blocking communication between the SMT and headline sponsor African Bank. 

“No one can stop us from hosting our race,” said Itshegetseng. 

“We called this press conference to defend our rights. The sponsors are ignoring us, and if we don’t get new ones, we’ll walk away—but we will interdict the NPO if they proceed with their event.”

He confirmed that the Trust has applied to host the 2025 edition on 2 November and asserted that only the Trust can cancel the marathon.

“We wrote to African Bank three times, but they told us they won’t engage with us and want to engage with the NPO instead,” he added.

Meanwhile, an NPO member preparing to launch their version of the event in two weeks told SABC Sport that the race will go ahead. 

“Let the SMT announce their date; we’ll announce ours. The race is on—we don’t recognise the SMT. Soweto is now split into two camps,” the member said, promising to reveal more details at their upcoming launch.

Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA), which recently dissolved its board, has also distanced itself from the SMT, further complicating the marathon’s future.