It is all systems go for the annual Nedbank Maseru City Run (MCR) this Sunday, February 22 as this year’s edition rewrites the record books.
With over 3,400 runners registered just days before the big day, the MCR has firmly established itself as Lesotho’s biggest marathon, attracting more than double last year’s figures.
In 2025, just over 1,400 athletes took part, but this year’s numbers have dwarfed that figure, underlining the race’s explosive growth and nationwide appeal.
Now in its fourth year, the Maseru City Run has evolved from a promising road race into a full-scale sporting spectacle that draws elite athletes, social runners, corporate teams and families alike, all converging on the capital for what has become the country’s flagship marathon event.
Adding royal sparkle to the occasion, Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso, and Crown Prince Lerotholi Seeiso will participate in the 21km half marathon, while Princess Senate Seeiso is set to compete in the 10km race. Their involvement highlights the marathon’s broad national appeal and its unifying spirit.
The event has also attracted high-profile political figures. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Motlatsi Maqelepo, Minister of Communication, Science, Innovation and Technology Nthati Moorosi, and other prominent personalities are expected to take part. Speaker of the National Assembly Tlohang Sekhamane has registered for the 10km race.
Beyond Lesotho’s borders, the marathon’s reputation is gaining traction. More than 300 athletes have registered from outside the country, representing South Africa, Pakistan, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe.
The growing international presence reflects the race’s rising regional stature and its emergence as a preferred destination for road running enthusiasts.
The competitive edge is equally sharp. Over 35 professional runners have confirmed participation, promising fierce contests across the various distances, including the 42.2km full marathon, 21km half marathon and 10km race.
A major milestone for this year’s edition came after a successful World Athletics route measurement and certification exercise conducted in Maseru in October. As a result, the 42.2km marathon is now an official qualifier for both the Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon, a development that places the Maseru City Run among internationally recognised races.
Organisers are also working towards having the event listed on the World Athletics annual calendar, with ambitions of attracting at least 400 foreign runners in future editions.
The event’s growth has been matched by strong corporate backing. Nedbank Lesotho headlines the 2026 edition as title sponsor, supported by Maseru Toyota, Maluti Mountain Cement, Stanlib Lesotho and NBC.
Overall, a total of 27 sponsors have come on board, including 21 trade sponsors that feature Newsday among others.
Organisers have assured participants that preparations are well on track. Water stations have been strategically placed at approximately three-kilometre intervals along all routes, in line with international race standards.
While late entry payments remain a recurring challenge, organisers expressed optimism that extending the no-pack registration deadline to February 20 will help manage last-minute demand and ensure a smooth race-day experience.
Summary
- Now in its fourth year, the Maseru City Run has evolved from a promising road race into a full-scale sporting spectacle that draws elite athletes, social runners, corporate teams and families alike, all converging on the capital for what has become the country’s flagship marathon event.
- Adding royal sparkle to the occasion, Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso, and Crown Prince Lerotholi Seeiso will participate in the 21km half marathon, while Princess Senate Seeiso is set to compete in the 10km race.
- 2km marathon is now an official qualifier for both the Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon, a development that places the Maseru City Run among internationally recognised races.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
