Eliud Kipchoge starts “Eliud’s World Tour” at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon this Sunday
The DSM-Firmenich Running Team is proud to announce that, after months of anticipation, Eliud’s World Tour is kicking off this week in South Africa. The project is a new global initiative led by marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, in which he will run seven marathons on all seven continents over the next 3 years, aiming to inspire communities around the world.
The project officially begins at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, where Kipchoge will take his place on the start line in one of Africa’s fastest-growing marathons and one of the world’s most iconic running cities. It also marks Eliud’s first-ever marathon on African soil, making this race extra special for Kipchoge.
Eliud’s World Tour is built around a simple but powerful idea: to connect with runners everywhere, inspire people through sport and celebrate the universal language of running. Over the coming months and years, the initiative will see Kipchoge travel to major races and emerging running destinations across the globe, engaging directly with local communities, clubs, schools and fans.
“For me, running has always been about more than competition,” said Kipchoge. “Running brings people together. Through this World Tour, I want to meet runners in every corner of the world, share experiences, inspire the next generation and continue spreading the message that no human is limited.”
The launch in Cape Town marks a symbolic starting point for the project. As one of the most vibrant and diverse marathon destinations in the world, the city reflects the initiative’s inclusive and global ambition.
During race week, Kipchoge will participate in community activations, youth engagement sessions, and special events connected to the marathon, giving fans and runners an opportunity to interact closely with one of the greatest athletes in sporting history.
Online Challenge
Runners worldwide can join Eliud’s run virtually through the online challenge that will launch on www.eliudsrunningworld.com. All uploaded runs are tracked in a digital hub, making it visible how runners worldwide are coming together while raising funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation.
“Eliud has inspired millions through his achievements, humility, and philosophy,” says Marleen Vink-Rennings of the DSM-Firmenich Running Team. “Eliud’s World Tour is about taking that inspiration directly to people around the world and creating meaningful connections through running. Eliud has long said that he wants to make this a running world. Because a running world is a happy world. We are excited to begin this journey in Cape Town and put these words into action. Through the online challenge, we want to create a movement, not only in Cape Town, but around the world.”
Next to his running ambitions throughout the project, Eliud’s Running World sets out to raise over 1 million dollars in funds for education and environmental projects supported through the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation.
Widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner of all time, Kipchoge is a two-time Olympic marathon champion and former world record holder. His influence extends far beyond racing, inspiring runners globally through his discipline, mindset, and belief in human potential.
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will serve as the opening chapter of what promises to become a unique global celebration of running culture, community, and possibility.
Race Day
Eliud Kipchoge will be joined by fellow DSM-Firmenich Running Team teammates Mohamed Esa and Maru Teferi in the men’s field. In the women’s race, Lonah Salpeter and Desi Jisa will compete in ‘The Mother City’.
