Botswana has been awarded the rights to host the 2026 World Athletics Relays, marking a first for the country. The event will take place in Gaborone on May 2-3, 2026, highlighting Botswana’s growing influence in athletics. Key figures such as World Athletics President Sebastian Coe and Minister Jacob Kelebeng expressed optimism about the event’s impact on sports tourism and local athletic development.
Botswana has been awarded the prestigious hosting rights for the 2026 World Athletics Relays, marking a historic moment as it will be the first time the nation has hosted a World Athletics Series event. Scheduled for May 2-3, 2026, in Gaborone, this event further establishes Botswana’s emerging status in the international athletics community.
The announcement came during the 237th World Athletics Council Meeting held in Nanjing, China, where Botswana was commended for its rising influence in athletics. The country has seen remarkable advancements in the sport, exemplified by elite athletes like Isaac Makwala, Letsile Tebogo, Nijel Amos, and Amantle Montsho, who have elevated Botswana’s global presence.
Hosting the World Athletics Relays signifies a significant achievement for Botswana, reflecting its development in sports infrastructure and event management. World Athletics President, Sebastian Coe, expressed confidence in Botswana’s capability to host a premier event, stating that the nation’s commitment to athletics and its increasing expertise has paved the way for this milestone.
Gaborone has previously demonstrated its ability to host major athletics competitions, including the successful World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meeting in 2023. The country is also preparing for the Botswana Golden Grand Prix on April 12 this year, which is expected to attract outstanding international talent.
In response to this announcement, Botswana’s Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng, expressed pride in the opportunity, emphasizing its potential to ignite national enthusiasm. He remarked on the event’s capacity to draw global attention and inspire future generations, predicting a lasting legacy for Botswana.
The World Athletics Relays is anticipated to enhance sports tourism in Botswana and offer a competitive platform for local athletes. Moreover, Botswana’s selection aligns with World Athletics’ objective to broaden its global representation and elevate Africa’s presence in significant athletic events.
In recent years, Africa has successfully hosted numerous premier athletics competitions, such as the 2017 World Cross Country Championships in Uganda and the 2022 African Championships in Mauritius. With the 2026 World Athletics Relays approaching, Botswana is affirming its role as a vital player in global athletics, both athletically and as a host nation.
In conclusion, Botswana’s hosting of the 2026 World Athletics Relays marks a pivotal moment in its sporting history. This event not only showcases the nation’s growing stature in international athletics but also highlights its commitment to developing sports infrastructure and engaging local talent. With high hopes for boosting sports tourism and inspiring future generations, Botswana stands ready to welcome the world in May 2026.
Original Source: www.tv47.digital
