The World Relay Championships are taking place this weekend at the Estadio Nacional de Botsuana in Gaborone, Botswana [1].
This event marks the first time the World Relay Championships have been hosted in an African country [2]. The decision to bring the competition to Botswana represents a significant expansion of the sport's global footprint and visibility within the region.
The competitions are scheduled for Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, 2026 [1]. Athletes and relay teams from around the world are gathering at the national stadium to compete in a series of high-stakes sprints. TVN Chile said the competitions will be broadcast live through their network [1].
Among the competitors, Brazil has focused heavily on its preparation for the Gaborone event. Terra Brazil said Brazil initiated the preparation of its relay teams specifically for the 2026 championships [2]. The Brazilian squads are looking to leverage their training to secure podium finishes in a competitive international field.
Local organizers in Gaborone have prepared the National Stadium to meet international standards for the two-day event [1]. The atmosphere in the city reflects the historic nature of the championships, as the event brings international attention to Botswana's sporting infrastructure.
While the focus remains on the results of the races, the logistical success of the event serves as a benchmark for future athletics championships on the continent. The integration of global broadcasting, such as the coverage provided by TVN, ensures that the races reach an audience far beyond the borders of Botswana [1].
“This event marks the first time the World Relay Championships have been hosted in an African country.”
Hosting the World Relay Championships in Gaborone signals a strategic shift by athletics governing bodies to decentralize major events from traditional hubs in Europe and North America. By establishing a precedent for hosting high-level competitions in Africa, Botswana is positioning itself as a viable destination for international sports tourism and infrastructure development.
