The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has a new route, distance, and finish venue for the 98th edition of the world-famous ultra-marathon.
The Down Run on Sunday, 8 June 2025, will take runners from Pietermaritzburg to an all-new finish outside Durban’s People’s Park, covering 89.98km — a stretch just over 2km longer than 2023’s official distance of 87.701km.
The Comrades Down Run Route Profile
This will be the 49th Down Run. The longest Down Run in the history of the Comrades was 92km in 1971.
Last year’s Up Run started at the City Hall in Durban and finished at the Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg, covering a distance of 85.91km
The traditional finish at Kingsmead Cricket Stadium has been replaced by a street finish on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, where runners will be welcomed with a grandstand, club tents, and a hospitality zone in the adjacent People’s Park.
Comrades 2024 by Ricard Dobbin
Alain Dalais, CMA General Manager, says:
“We are really excited about the new finish venue. It will provide runners and spectators with a unique experience and inspirational end to the day’s running. The smoother finish process and the ability for supporters to be right there at the end will create a terrific atmosphere.”
Split Start System
An unprecedented 22,000 runners will lineup in Pietermaritzburg which will feature two separate starts for the first time in the history of race.
In previous years the all participants started together at 05:30 with the cut-off for all finishers being 12 hours later 17:30.
The new start times are:
Group 1: 5:45am
Group 2: 6:00am
Both groups will have 12 hours to finish. Bibs and finish chutes will be color-coded (orange/purple), and a distinct finish signal will mark the end for each group.
Dalais explains: “The 89.98km distance was carefully measured to honor tradition while improving the race experience. This course embodies the spirit of the Comrades — it’s a true test of endurance and resilience.”
The last 10km into Durban will be lit using mobile floodlights, in addition to existing streetlights. Safety is top priority, with heavy security along the route, at all parking zones, and around the finish precinct.
Dalais adds: “A massive thank-you to our Race Organising Committee and Race Advisory Committee — nearly all of whom are past Comrades runners. And a special shout-out to Board member Rory Steyn, who’s helped us elevate security to another level.”
CMA Chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo, a passionate Comrades finisher himself, shared:
“As an athlete who has experienced the Comrades journey, I understand the dedication and preparation that goes into this race. The Comrades Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a testament to the human spirit and the incredible camaraderie we share.”
Key Dates:
Race Day: Sunday, 8 June 2025
Qualifying Window Closes: Monday, 5 May 2025
Seeding Info Released: Shortly after the qualifying deadline
With a historic new finish, a the biggest field ever, and refined logistics, Comrades 2025 promises to be one of the most memorable Down Runs yet.
