iTOO Special Risks has been appointed the official speciality insurance partner to the Comrades Marathon, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding one of South Africa’s most iconic sporting events, by providing the expert backing provided by speciality events covers.

As thousands of runners prepare to take on the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon, iTOO’s comprehensive event insurance cover ensures that the race continues to operate with confidence, resilience and world‑class risk management.

The Comrades Marathon is a logistical and operational undertaking of extraordinary scale. With tens of thousands of participants, volunteers, spectators and service providers spread across nearly 90 kilometres, the event requires meticulous planning and robust protection against a wide range of potential risks. iTOO’s specialised event insurance solutions provide exactly that.

“Major events like the Comrades Marathon carry inherent uncertainties – from weather disruptions to crowd‑related incidents and unforeseen operational challenges. Our role is to ensure that organisers can focus on delivering an exceptional experience, knowing that the financial and liability risks are expertly managed,” says Mamoeti Nosi, Product Head: Events at iTOO Special Risks.

“Importantly, our cover also gives the runners, who have been tirelessly preparing for this big moment, the confidence that should unforeseen circumstances arise regarding the race, their ticket purchase has also been protected by the organisers.”  

A partnership built on trust and technical expertise

iTOO’s renewed partnership reflects a long‑standing relationship grounded in technical excellence and a deep understanding of the events sector. The company’s event insurance portfolio is designed to protect organisers against a spectrum of exposures, including public liability, event cancellation, ticket refunds and a range of unforeseen disruptions that could jeopardise the success of large‑scale gatherings.

“The Comrades Marathon is more than a race; it is a national institution. Providing insurance for an event of this magnitude requires not only specialist underwriting expertise but also an appreciation for the cultural and economic significance of the occasion. We take that responsibility very seriously,” Nosi explains.

This year marks the 99th edition of the ultramarathon, with all 22 000 available entries snapped up in record time as athletes gear up for the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance.  

Why event insurance matters more than ever

The events industry has evolved rapidly in recent years, with heightened expectations around safety, compliance and risk mitigation. Large gatherings face increasing scrutiny from regulators, sponsors and the public, and with that comes a greater need for robust insurance solutions that protect both organisers and participants.

Yet, Nosi points out, the importance of event insurance is often underestimated until something goes wrong. “Events are living, dynamic environments. Even with the best planning, there are variables you simply cannot control. Insurance is the safety net that ensures a single incident does not derail an entire operation or expose organisers to crippling liability.”

She adds that the financial implications of uninsured or under‑insured events can be severe, as costs stemming from incidents such as medical emergencies and infrastructure failures can escalate quickly. Comprehensive cover is thus not a luxury but rather a fundamental component of responsible event management.

Supporting the sustainability of South Africa’s events sector

As the events industry continues to rebuild momentum, partnerships like the one between iTOO and the Comrades Marathon play a vital role in strengthening sector resilience. By providing tailored insurance solutions, iTOO helps ensure that organisers can continue to host safe, compliant and memorable experiences for participants and spectators alike.

“Events contribute significantly to South Africa’s economy and social fabric. Our mission is to support the sustainability of this sector by giving organisers the confidence to innovate, expand, and deliver exceptional experiences without being overwhelmed by risk,” says Nosi.

A commitment to excellence on race day and beyond

The Comrades Marathon attracts global attention, drawing elite athletes, recreational runners and supporters from around the world. Ensuring the safety and continuity of such a high‑profile event requires a partner with both technical capability and a deep appreciation for the event’s legacy.

“Our continued partnership with the Comrades Marathon is a testament to the trust placed in iTOO’s expertise. We are proud to stand behind the organisers once again and assure them that the event is protected by industry‑leading insurance solutions,” says Nosi.  

As the 2026 edition of the race approaches, iTOO remains committed to supporting the organisers in delivering a seamless and secure event. With comprehensive cover in place, the focus can remain where it belongs – on the athletes, the supporters and the spirit of endurance that defines the Comrades Marathon.

“Ultimately, our goal is simple. We want every runner, volunteer and organiser to know that the event is backed by a partner who understands the risks, anticipates the challenges and is fully invested in the success of this extraordinary race,” concludes Nosi.