The 2026 World Athletics Relays will take place May 2-3 [1] at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana [2].
This event marks the first time the World Athletics Relays have been held in Africa [3]. The move highlights the continent's increasing influence and role within global athletics, providing a platform to showcase regional talent on a world stage.
Eight countries have confirmed their participation in the two-day competition [4]. Among the competing nations are Canada, the U.S., Nigeria, and Botswana [5].
USA Track & Field has named its roster for the event, with a representative saying that the U.S. will field 18 athletes [6] at the Gaborone Relays. Nigeria has also announced its delegation, sending 24 athletes [7] to compete in the capital city.
Local excitement has been bolstered by the involvement of top athletes. Letsile Tebogo said, "I am excited to inspire the next generation of athletes" [8].
National teams have expressed a high level of resolve heading into the races. A National Sports Commission spokesperson said, "We are determined to make our nation proud on the global stage" [9].
World Athletics has positioned the event as a milestone for the sport. The competition is intended to serve as a global celebration in Gaborone, bridging the gap between international stars and aspiring youth athletes across Africa [3].
“"I am excited to inspire the next generation of athletes,"”
By hosting the World Athletics Relays in Botswana, World Athletics is strategically expanding its footprint in Africa. This shift acknowledges the region as a powerhouse of sprinting talent and aims to decentralize the sport's major events from traditional hubs in Europe and North America.
