Botswana will host the 2026 World Athletics Relays in Gaborone on May 2-3, marking a historic first for the country in hosting a World Athletics Series event. The announcement reflects Botswana’s growing influence in athletics, with key athletes and established infrastructure contributing to its capability to organize significant sporting events. The event will enhance local sports tourism and provide opportunities for young athletes.
Botswana has secured the rights to host the 2026 World Athletics Relays, marking a historic milestone as it becomes the first southern African nation to stage a World Athletics Series event. The competition will take place in Gaborone on May 2-3, 2026, reinforcing Botswana’s growing stature in global athletics. This decision was revealed during the 237th World Athletics Council Meeting held in Nanjing, China, recognizing Botswana’s increasing impact in the sport.
The country has seen notable advancements in international athletics, with elite athletes like Isaac Makwala, Letsile Tebogo, Nijel Amos, and Amantle Montsho enhancing Botswana’s global profile. Hosting the World Athletics Relays reflects the nation’s progress in developing sports infrastructure and management capabilities.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe expressed confidence in Botswana’s event hosting abilities, stating, “Botswana’s commitment to athletics, both through their elite athletes and event hosting capabilities, has led them to this moment.” Coe noted the growth in experience across Africa in staging high-quality athletic competitions.
Gaborone has demonstrated its capacity for hosting major athletics events, recently conducting a successful World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meeting in 2023. Additionally, the Botswana Golden Grand Prix scheduled for April 12 of this year will attract elite international talent.
Jacob Kelebeng, Botswana’s Minister of Sport and Arts, viewed the announcement as a historic opportunity, stating, “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 significance of the event in inspiring future generations.
The World Athletics Relays are anticipated to enhance Botswana’s sports tourism by providing a platform for local athletes to compete with international counterparts. This selection aligns with World Athletics’ aim to broaden its global reach and promote Africa’s participation in significant events. In recent years, Africa has successfully hosted several high-profile athletics competitions, including the 2017 World Cross Country Championships in Uganda.
In summary, Botswana’s selection as the host for the 2026 World Athletics Relays marks a significant achievement for the country in the realm of global athletics. This event promises to elevate Botswana’s profile in sports tourism and event management while providing an opportunity for local athletes to shine on an international stage. The commitment of Botswanan officials and the nation’s established infrastructure suggest a successful hosting of this prestigious competition, contributing to the ongoing efforts to enhance Africa’s representation in the global sports arena.
Original Source: www.tv47.digital
