In a historic first, the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships (WMTRC) will head to African soil in 2027, with Cape Town confirmed as the host city. From 6–10 October 2027, the world’s best off-road runners will take on the rugged trails surrounding the city’s most famous landmark — Table Mountain.
The bid, led by Golazo South Africa in partnership with Athletics South Africa and Western Province Athletics, beat strong international competition to secure the event. The organisers aim to showcase Africa’s immense potential in mountain and trail running while inspiring a new generation of athletes across the continent.
Why Cape Town is the Perfect Stage
Known as the gateway to Africa, Cape Town has a proven record of hosting major endurance events, from the iconic Two Oceans Marathon to the Cape Town Marathon. The city’s diverse terrain promises an unforgettable test for WMTRC competitors — from the steep ascents of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head to fast, technical descents and rocky singletrack.
Expect a true mix of mountain conditions: technical paths, big elevation, and constantly changing views. Runners will be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountain ranges — assuming they can catch their breath long enough to look up.
A Growing Global Championship
The WMTRC has an impressive history. The World Mountain Running Championships began in 1985, with the first World Trail Championships in 2007. The two merged in 2021, creating a biennial festival of off-road racing.
Cape Town will follow the 2025 edition in Canfranc-Pirineos, Spain. Recent hosts include Innsbruck and Stubai (2023) and Chiang Mai (2022).
The 2027 championships will feature four senior events — classic (up and down), uphill, short trail, and long trail — plus an U20 race. Alongside the elite action, thousands of amateur runners will get the chance to join the mass participation races, soaking up the same atmosphere as the pros.
Organisers expect around 1,200 elite athletes from more than 80 nations and over 2,000 mass participants.
Global and Local Excitement
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe called the announcement “an exciting opportunity for the sport as a whole,” adding that Cape Town will prove to be “spectacular hosts.”
The presidents of the World Mountain Running Association, the International Association of Ultrarunners, and the International Trail Running Association echoed his enthusiasm, praising Cape Town’s stunning scenery and its reputation for hosting world-class sporting events.
Local leaders are equally thrilled. Western Cape Provincial Minister Ricardo Mackenzie highlighted the economic boost and job creation the event will bring, while Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis warned runners not to underestimate Table Mountain’s toughness:
“Her beauty and fame might fool you, but Table Mountain’s rugged trails and steep elevations will pose a stern challenge to elite runners and mass participants alike.”
Trail Running History in the Making
For the global mountain and trail running community, 2027 promises to be more than just a championship — it will be a celebration of the sport’s growing reach, set against one of the most spectacular natural backdrops on Earth.
Whether you’re chasing a medal or a lifetime memory, Cape Town will be ready to test your legs, lungs, and spirit.
