Soweto Marathon returns under new management for 30th edition

The iconic Soweto Marathon will make a strong comeback this year for its 30th edition under new management and a renewed vision.

Popularly known as The People’s Race, the marathon will now be administered as an NPC. This decision was made by a majority vote from nine out of 11 Soweto athletics clubs during a meeting earlier this year.

This strategic shift to NPC governance aims to restore stability and ensure smoother race operations after years of turmoil marked by leadership disputes and allegations of financial mismanagement.

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According to Soweto Marathon spokesperson Jabu Mbuli, the decision to administer the race as an NPC is a step towards rebuilding credibility and improving accountability.

“The appointed non-executive board of directors will largely be comprised of qualified professionals, including chartered accountants and attorneys,” said Mbuli.

“The athletics clubs of Soweto own this race and will ensure the organising committee runs it by the people, for the people.”

In recent years, the Soweto Marathon Trust has faced significant criticism due to allegations of financial mismanagement and poor planning.

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Runners have also raised concerns over water shortages and not getting their race T-shirts in some previous races.

Despite these challenges impacting public trust and damaging the event’s reputation, last year’s marathon was a significant success, with over 25,000 participants, making it the largest one-day road race in the country.

With the new administration structure in place, organisers hope to restore the marathon’s status as a premier community-focused event and return it to its former glory.

Mbuli confirmed that the official launch of the race will take place this month, with race day scheduled for later in November.