Cape Town Marathon Deferral: 2027 Policy and 2028 Window
If you hold an entry for the 2027 Cape Town Marathon weekend and can no longer participate, you cannot transfer your spot or hand your bib to another runner. All 2027 entries are non-transferable, and substitutions are strictly forbidden.
Eligible entrants who can no longer run will have an opportunity to defer their place to 2028 through a dedicated deferral window opening closer to race day.
Are transfers or substitutions allowed for 2027?
All 2027 race entries across the Marathon, Peace Run, and Trail Run are strictly non-transferable. Runner substitutions are not permitted under any circumstances.
Running with another participant's bib is strictly prohibited. Any runner found violating this rule will be disqualified from the event. Anyone wishing to report illegal bib running can contact the race office at raceoffice@capetownmarathon.com.
How does deferring to 2028 work?
The race organiser has confirmed that a deferral window will open closer to race day for participants who can no longer take part. This process allows eligible entries to be deferred to 2028.
Keep the following limitations in mind:
- Sponsored entries are excluded: Sponsored 2027 marathon entries are non-transferable, with no substitutions or deferrals permitted.
- Calendar dates are unannounced: The exact opening and closing dates for the deferral window have not yet been published.
- Administrative terms stay unknown: The organiser has not specified whether deferrals require a processing fee or medical documentation.
What happens if the event is cancelled or rescheduled?
Specific organiser terms apply if the event itself cannot take place as scheduled:
- Event cancellation: If the event is cancelled by the organiser for any reason, all registered entrants receive a full refund of their entry fees. Refunds are processed proactively without participants needing to submit a request.
- Event rescheduling: If the event is rescheduled rather than cancelled, entrants can choose either to transfer their entry to the new date or receive a full refund.
- Travel expenses: The organiser is not responsible for any additional costs incurred by entrants, such as travel or accommodation.
For more entry information, see our guide on how to enter the Cape Town Marathon. To track future entry windows, set up free Cape Town Marathon alerts for opening warnings and closing reminders.
Sources: Sanlam Cape Town Marathon FAQ