The African Bank Soweto Marathon, celebrated as The People’s Race, is one of South Africa’s premier mass-participation running events. Held annually in Soweto each November, it offers three race distances: a 42.2 km full marathon, a 21.1 km half marathon, and a 10 km run. The race immerses participants in the cultural and historical heart of Soweto, passing iconic sites like Vilakazi Street, the Regina Mundi Church, and the Hector Pieterson Memorial. Organized under the oversight of Central Gauteng Athletics with support from African Bank, the event continues to grow in scale, diversity, and social impact. Its vibrant atmosphere and township energy make it a favorite among runners locally and internationally.
Race
Marathon
Race Date:
02 November, 2025
The 42.2 km Africanbank Soweto Marathon—the signature full-distance event of the People’s Race—is a challenging road race through Soweto’s vibrant township, starting at Nasrec and finishing at FNB Stadium. Established in 1991 and sponsored by African Bank, the race features a certified marathon route and has seen elite performances, including a men’s record of 2:16:28 set in 2012.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
How long is the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
Where does the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
How can I prepare for the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
The 42.2 km Africanbank Soweto Marathon—the signature full-distance event of the People’s Race—is a challenging road race through Soweto’s vibrant township, starting at Nasrec and finishing at FNB Stadium. Established in 1991 and sponsored by African Bank, the race features a certified marathon route and has seen elite performances, including a men’s record of 2:16:28 set in 2012.
The Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km is 42km long.
The Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km takes place in Soweto, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.
The Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km elevation gain is 526 meters, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
The 42.2 km Africanbank Soweto Marathon—the signature full-distance event of the People’s Race—is a challenging road race through Soweto’s vibrant township, starting at Nasrec and finishing at FNB Stadium. Established in 1991 and sponsored by African Bank, the race features a certified marathon route and has seen elite performances, including a men’s record of 2:16:28 set in 2012.
How long is the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
The Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km is 42km long.
Where does the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km take place?
The Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km takes place in Soweto, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.
What is the elevation gain of the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
The Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km elevation gain is 526 meters, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
How can I prepare for the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 42.2 km?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
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Sport:
Running
Tags:
Major City
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Africanbank Soweto Marathon or The Soweto Marathon Trust. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Africanbank Soweto Marathon website.
