ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DURBAN DELIVERS A WINNING WEEKEND OF SPORT, ENTERTAINMENT AND TOURISM
EThekwini Municipality is celebrating another vibrant and successful weekend as Durban hosted two major international events, the 99th Comrades Marathon and the GAS Motorshow International.
The events attracted thousands of visitors, participants, exhibitors, and spectators from across South Africa and the world.
Both events reaffirmed Durban's status as South Africa's premier events destination while generating significant economic activity and showcasing the City's ability to host world-class sporting and lifestyle events.
The internationally acclaimed Comrades Marathon, which started in Durban and concluded in Pietermaritzburg, delivered substantial economic and tourism benefits to the city.
Hotels, restaurants, transport operators, tourism establishments, and various local businesses experienced increased activity throughout the race weekend as thousands of runners and supporters descended on eThekwini.
The City welcomed approximately 21 600 participants and an estimated 65 000 spectators, highlighting the event's important role in driving economic growth, stimulating tourism, and promoting Durban as a leading destination for major international events.
At the same time, the GAS Motorshow International, hosted at Suncoast Casino, attracted large crowds of motoring enthusiasts who enjoyed a spectacular showcase of vehicles, drifting displays, automotive innovations, and family entertainment.
The event further boosted visitor numbers and contributed to Durban's growing reputation as a hub for major sporting, entertainment, and lifestyle events.
EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba welcomed the successful hosting of both events, noting their significant contribution to the local economy and tourism sector.
"These events demonstrate Durban's ability to host world-class gatherings that attract local and international audiences. They contribute meaningfully to tourism, support local businesses, create opportunities for economic growth, and position Durban as a city capable of hosting major international events," said Mayor Xaba.
He added: “The Comrades Marathon remains one of the City's most valuable sporting events, attracting thousands of visitors who contribute to the local economy while showcasing Durban's world-class hospitality and tourism offerings."
To enhance the race-day experience, the Municipality hosted a vibrant Comrades Marathon Fan Park at Kings Park Athletics Stadium, where residents and visitors gathered to watch the race live, enjoy family-friendly entertainment, and celebrate the achievements of participating runners.
Following the successful conclusion of the marathon, the Municipality implemented a comprehensive post-event clean-up operation to restore affected areas and maintain high standards of cleanliness along the route from Durban City Hall to Cato Ridge.
Municipal teams were deployed immediately after the event to ensure the route remained clean, safe, and accessible for residents and motorists.
Through meticulous planning, teamwork, and dedication, the City successfully completed the operation while supporting its waste diversion and environmental sustainability objectives.
A key component of the clean-up programme involved the recovery and separation of recyclable materials, including plastic bottles, water sachets, cardboard, paper, and other packaging waste generated during the event.
The operation resulted in the collection of 13 tonnes of general waste, while an impressive 28 tonnes of recyclable materials were recovered and diverted from landfill sites.
In addition, Metro Police maintained effective law enforcement operations throughout the event.
Metro Police Spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu confirmed that race day was well coordinated, with no by-law infringements or arrests recorded.
Road closures were also reopened as quickly as possible to ensure the smooth flow of traffic following the event.
The successful hosting of the 99th Comrades Marathon and the GAS Motorshow International once again demonstrated eThekwini Municipality's commitment to attracting and supporting major events that stimulate investment, drive tourism growth, create economic opportunities, and enhance Durban's profile as Africa's leading events and tourism destination.
The Municipality extends its appreciation to all participants, visitors, organisers, sponsors, volunteers, Municipal teams, law enforcement agencies, and residents whose collective efforts contributed to the success of this memorable weekend.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality's Marketing and Communications Directorate
