Your Second Chance at Comrades Glory: The 2025 Substitution Window

The Comrades Marathon is a legendary race, and securing a spot on the starting line is a significant achievement. But life happens. Sometimes, despite the best-laid plans, injury, commitments, or unforeseen circumstances can derail your Comrades journey. Thankfully, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) offers a lifeline: the substitution process.

A Window of Opportunity

If you’ve been dreaming of running Comrades but missed the initial entry window, or if your situation has changed, take note! There’s a short window period coming up in April where entry slots can become available. This is your only opportunity for this year’s race, unfortunately.

Here’s the essential breakdown:

• Withdrawal Period: From March 17th to March 31st, 2025, runners who have already secured an entry can officially withdraw from the race.
• Substitution Entry Period: Starting April 1st and running through April 15th, 2025, those vacated spots will be up for grabs. This is a “first come, first served” situation, so speed is of the essence! You’ll pay the standard 2025 entry fee if you’re successful.
• It is important to remember that after April 15, 2025, there is no way to enter the race.

The Fine Print (But It’s Important!)

There are a few key rules to keep in mind:

• No Going Back: If you withdraw and someone takes your spot, you can’t reclaim your original entry. It’s a one-way street.
• A Small Cost: Withdrawing runners will receive a refund of 85% of their original entry fee. The CMA retains 15% to cover administrative costs.
• No Direct Swaps: All transactions go through the official CMA process. There’s no exchange of money or vouchers directly between runners.
• Only runners who have fully paid can withdraw.

How to Prepare

If you’re hoping to snag a substitution entry, being ready is key:

1. Calendar Reminder: Set alerts for both the withdrawal and substitution periods. You’ll want to be online the moment the substitution window opens.
2. Stay Informed: Regularly check the official Comrades Marathon website and social media channels for any updates.
3. Be prepared to pay the entry fee.

A Chance Worth Taking

The Comrades Marathon substitution process offers a real chance for runners to achieve their ultra-marathon dreams. It’s a carefully managed system that benefits both withdrawing runners and those eager to take their place. Be prepared, be quick, and good luck!

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Want to enter Comrades Marathon 2026?

Let Africa Marathons organise your trip to the iconic Comrades Marathon 2026. To find out more and enter the race, please email us at [email protected]. You can also contact us using the button below to join.

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