The 2026 City to City Marathon, scheduled to take place on September 27, has been cancelled due to a lack of financial support and sponsorship.

Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) and Athletics Gauteng North (AGN) announced the cancellation, saying they were unable to secure the necessary funding and sponsorship required to stage the event to the appropriate standard.

In a joint statement, the organisations acknowledged the significance of the City to City Marathon to the athletics community, as well as its longstanding historical and heritage value.

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The race has played an important role in the development of road running in the region and remains a significant part of Gauteng’s sporting heritage.

“We acknowledge the disappointment this decision may cause and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused to athletes, clubs, officials, volunteers, partners, stakeholders and members of the public,” the organisations said.

CGA and AGN thanked everyone who has supported the race and contributed to its legacy over the years.
However, they stressed that the cancellation of the 2026 edition does not signal the end of the City to City Marathon.

The two athletics bodies said they have already begun engaging with potential sponsors and strategic partners in an effort to establish a sustainable foundation for the race’s return.

Their objective is to work towards bringing the City to City Marathon back to the 2027 athletics calendar, subject to securing the necessary support.

“We remain committed to working with our stakeholders to ensure that this iconic race can return in a manner that reflects its history, heritage and importance to the athletics community,” CGA and AGN said.