Botswana will host the 2026 World Athletics Relays, marking its first World Athletics Series event. Scheduled for May 2-3, Gaborone is recognized for its growing influence in athletics and has a history of hosting notable events. The announcement highlights Botswana’s elite athletes and aims to enhance sports tourism while inspiring local talent. World Athletics President commended Botswana’s commitment and capabilities in delivering top-tier events.
Botswana has officially been designated to host the 2026 World Athletics Relays, marking a significant milestone as it will be the first time the country hosts a World Athletics Series event. Scheduled for May 2-3, 2026, in Gaborone, this occasion reinforces Botswana’s growing stature in global athletics, recognized during the World Athletics Council Meeting in Nanjing, China.
The recognition comes at a time when Botswana has experienced substantial progress in international athletics, largely attributed to its elite sprinters, including Isaac Makwala, Letsile Tebogo, Nijel Amos, and Amantle Montsho, who have elevated the nation’s profile globally. Hosting the World Athletics Relays showcases Botswana’s enhanced sports infrastructure and event management capabilities.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe lauded Botswana’s dedication to the sport, saying, “Botswana’s commitment to athletics, both through their elite athletes and event hosting capabilities, has led them to this moment. We are seeing a real increase in experience, expertise, and skills across Africa.”
Gaborone’s track record in hosting athletics events further supports its selection, evidenced by the successful World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meeting in 2023. This year, the city is also preparing to host the Botswana Golden Grand Prix on April 12, continuing to attract premier international talent.
Jacob Kelebeng, Botswana’s Minister of Sport and Arts, expressed pride in the announcement, labeling it a historic opportunity: “The World Athletics Relays Gaborone 2026 will ignite a national passion, drawing the world to our shores and showcasing our unique spirit.” He emphasized the event’s potential to inspire future generations and leave a legacy.
The World Athletics Relays aim not only to boost Botswana’s sports tourism but also to provide a platform for local youth athletes to compete with the world’s elite on home soil. Botswana’s selection underscores World Athletics’ commitment to expanding its global presence and enhancing Africa’s representation in significant international events.
Over the last decade, Africa has hosted multiple prestigious athletics competitions, solidifying the continent’s role in the global athletics scene. As Gaborone prepares for 2026, Botswana is establishing its presence as a vital player in both competitive and organizational realms of athletics.
Botswana’s hosting of the 2026 World Athletics Relays represents a pivotal moment in the country’s athletic journey, showcasing significant advancements in sports management and infrastructure. This event not only promotes Botswana on the global athletic stage but also nurtures local talent and fosters sports tourism. The country’s prolific athletes and successful past events reflect its growing influence in international athletics, further aligning with World Athletics’ mission of increasing African representation in major global competitions.
Original Source: www.tv47.digital
