Cape Town Marathon 2027: Can You Transfer Your Race Number?

The Cape Town Marathon 2027 introduces clear and detailed rules regarding race numbers, deferrals, and refunds. The organiser states that all 2027 entries — whether for the Marathon, Peace Run, or Trail Run — are assigned to a specific participant and cannot be transferred to another person. This means no substitutions, no participant swaps, and no handing your race number to someone else, even if you are unable to run.

The only exception applies to standard marathon entries, for which a deferral window will open closer to race day. Participants who cannot take part will be able to defer their entry to 2028 — but only for themselves. A deferral is not a transfer; it simply moves your participation to the next year. Sponsored entries are completely inflexible: they cannot be deferred, changed, or transferred under any circumstances.

The refund policy is equally clear. A full refund is issued only if the event is cancelled or if the race date is changed. In the case of cancellation, all registered participants receive an automatic refund — no request is required. The organiser does not cover additional costs such as travel or accommodation. If the event is rescheduled, participants may choose either to transfer their entry to the new date or receive a full refund.

In practice, every participant must run under their assigned race number, with no option to pass it on. Deferrals apply only to standard marathon entries, while sponsored entries remain completely inflexible. Refunds are issued solely in situations controlled by the organiser, such as cancellation or date changes.

Source: Cape Town Marathon