One of South Africa’s most celebrated running series is set to become even bigger, bolder, and more refreshing. Stillwater Sports, organisers of the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, are excited to announce a major new partnership with HEINEKEN Beverages. Starting in 2026, HEINEKEN Beverages will join the Series as an Official Headline Sponsor in an exciting three-year collaboration.

“This is a truly special moment for the Series,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder. “Welcoming HEINEKEN Beverages on board as a national sponsor elevates the energy and experience of every race. Both brands share a passion for health, wellness, and connection, and this partnership will bring all of that to life in a big way across all five cities.”

Meyer adds that the partnership further enhances the Series’ reputation for creating memorable experiences that unite runners, families, and communities across South Africa. “Runners and their families, friends, and colleagues will be able to celebrate their 10km achievements together, making each city’s event even more meaningful and rewarding.”

HEINEKEN Beverages expressed equal enthusiasm about joining the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, underscoring the partnership’s alignment with the company’s internal wellness initiatives and culture of togetherness.

“We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series - a world-class event that we truly admire,” says Kavir Gangiah, Head of Consumer Experience (CX) and Sponsorship at HEINEKEN Beverages. “At HEINEKEN Beverages, we believe that health and wellness begin with our people. This partnership gives us the perfect platform to motivate our teams to get active together. The Series promotes fitness, well-being, and teamwork, while encouraging a little friendly competition among colleagues. We’re proud to be part of such a high-quality, well-organised series and can’t wait to celebrate achievements, enjoy the race-day energy, and share unforgettable moments with our teams across all five cities in 2026.”

Established in 2023 following the merger of HEINEKEN South Africa, Distell, and Namibia Breweries Limited, HEINEKEN Beverages combines an impressive portfolio of iconic brands. These include HEINEKEN, one of the world’s leading beer brands, and Distell, a long-standing household name in the South African beverage industry. Though a new entity, HEINEKEN Beverages is built on a powerful foundation of legacy, innovation, and brand excellence - a combination that makes this partnership with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series both strategic and meaningful.