“World’s Deepest Marathon” documentary to have its world premiere at African Mining Indaba 2026

A new documentary, World’s Deepest Marathon, will have its world premiere at African Mining Indaba on 10 February 2026.

The documentary follows the 55 runners who took part in the extraordinary feat of completing the World’s Deepest Marathon, held 1 119 metres below sea level in Boliden’s Garpenberg mine in Sweden.

Featuring in-depth interviews and unprecedented behind-the-scenes access, the film captures how participants prepared for the challenge, what motivated them to take part, and the extraordinary planning and collaborative efforts required to make the event possible. The documentary showcases the technologically advanced and innovative face of modern mining where safety is paramount.

Following the premiere, Rohitesh Dhawan, president and CEO of ICMM, who completed the marathon himself, will host a live panel with fellow participants including Corinne Smit (Newmont), Gareth Penny (Ninety One), Jonathan Price (Teck Resources Limited) and Ledile Dikgale (Kumba Iron Ore). They will be sharing exclusive insights into what it truly took to go the distance beneath the Earth’s surface and what it means to be a world record holder.

Dhawan commented: “Running at 24°C and 72% humidity, in total silence and with only head torches for light, was one of the most challenging yet rewarding things I’ve ever done.

“Global audiences got a sneak peak of the experience through Minecraft content creator Seapeekay, who livestreamed Minecraft from the mine on Twitch, marking a real first for the industry and a powerful way to show just how far modern mining has come. Now we are sharing the full story through this documentary – giving audiences a real insight of what it means to run deep underground, break two world records and support two incredible causes along the way.”

Said Terry Heymann, chief strategy officer of the World Gold Council: “We are proud to have sponsored the development of this eye-opening documentary that will help bring the story of modern mining to new audiences around the world. This project aligns closely with our mission to build greater awareness and understanding of the critical role that gold mining – and the broader mining and minerals industry – plays in society today and can continue to play in the future. By showcasing innovation, the highest safety standards and the human spirit at the heart of modern mining, the documentary offers a powerful insight into an industry that has evolved significantly and gives us the invaluable opportunity to challenge misconceptions.”

Paul Gurney, CEO and founder of BecomingX, added, “What excites me most about this documentary is it has real people at its heart: people who have worked for years in the mining industry and others who had never stepped foot in a mine let alone run in one. It shows their shared nerves, determination and a powerful sense of unity as they attempted something truly extraordinary.”

The marathon was co-organised by BecomingX, ICMM – and Boliden, which kindly hosted the event in its Garpenberg mine in Sweden. This documentary was made possible thanks to the sponsorship of the World Gold Council. They were also one of the marathon’s Official Partners alongside Hindustan Zinc and Teck Resources Limited.

Attendees of the Mining Indaba conference can see this world premiere on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, at 14h15 (doors open at 14h00), Red Sea Stage (CTICC 1). The screening will be filled on a first come first served basis.