Soweto Marathon Runner Hospitalised and in Critical Condition After Being Hit by ‘Drunk Driver’
- A Soweto Marathon runner has been hospitalised after being struck by a taxi during the event on Saturday
- The athlete is reportedly in critical condition at the hospital, as the driver of the taxi is allegedly drunk
- Social media users have shared their thoughts about the unfortunate incident that happened at the Soweto marathon
A woman taking part in the Soweto Marathon was rushed to hospital after a taxi struck her during the event, the organisers confirmed on Saturday, November 29, 2025.
Source: Getty Images
According to officials, the 45-year-old athlete sustained severe injuries when an unauthorised taxi forced its way onto the course and struck her.
The news about the runner being hospitalised is similar to the incident involving Moira Harding during the last Comrades Marathon.
The Soweto Marathon was won by two foreigners in the male and female categories. Joseph Seutloali of Lesotho won the men's race, while Margaret Jepchumba of Kenya won the women's race.
Soweto Marathon runner struck by taxi
Organisers said that the injured woman was stabilised at the scene and later transferred to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, where she remains in critical condition.
They confirmed that the taxi driver, suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol, was arrested for reckless and negligent driving.
The organisers added that their thoughts are with the injured runner and her family, and that they are working with medical teams to provide the best possible care while continuing to assess the situation and share updates as they become available.
Around 13,000 participants took part in the 30th Soweto Marathon, competing in the 42km, 21km, and 10km events.
Ahead of the race, there were fears it might be interrupted by an ongoing dispute over the event’s management. However, Central Gauteng Athletics, the provincial governing body, secured a court order the day before to ensure the marathon proceeded without disruption.
Source: Twitter
The only significant incident reported during the event was the hospitalisation of one runner.
Here is what social media users are saying concerning the report of a marathon runner being hit by a taxi online.
Adelle Carr said:
"How does a taxi get anywhere near the runners? We pray for recovery 🙏."
Gillian Kruger Vermeulen shared:
"I hope that a case of negligence has been opened already."
Tau Tsietsi Andrias Seliane wrote:
"This happened in front of us. We asked him to reverse, but he was stubborn and drove into the people, not facing the car.😭 I’m still traumatised and need counselling."
Zondo Mthiyane Mthiyane implied:
"Tax drivers think they own the road; thus, their problem is most of them."
Tessa Hanekom added:
"I hope she makes a full and speedy recovery and can continue participating in her healthy lifestyle. How traumatic for her and all the runners around her 😭 I sincerely hope the docket doesn't go missing and that this driver faces the full wrath of the law."
Mzansi footballer collapses, dies on pitch
Briefly News also reported that a Mzansi footballer collapsed and died after a league game at the Verulam Recreational Grounds on Todd Street in KwaZulu-Natal.
Witnesses said the player appeared fit and in good shape during the game, leaving teammates surprised when he later complained of breathing difficulties.
Source: Briefly News
