Nigeria, 38 Nations Battle for Relay Glory, World Championship Slots in Gaborone
Oru Leonard
Athletes from 39 countries, including Nigeria, have converged on Gaborone, Botswana, for the 2026 World Athletics Relays, with medals and crucial qualification spots for future global championships at stake.
The two-day competition, which begins on Saturday, May 2 and ends Sunday, May 3, will serve as a pathway to both the 2027 World Championships and the 2026 World Ultimate Championships. Competitors will feature in six events: men’s and women’s 4x100m and 4x400m relays, as well as the mixed 4x100m and 4x400m relays.
Action kicks off on Day 1 with Round 1 races, starting at 2:05 pm local time with the mixed 4x100m relays. The competition will intensify on Day 2, beginning at 2:02 pm, with qualification rounds and finals across all events.
Nigeria has fielded a strong contingent of 27 athletes competing in all six relay events, reflecting the country’s determination to make a significant impact on the global athletics stage. The team will participate in men’s, women’s, and mixed relay categories, targeting podium finishes and qualification berths.
The opening day will feature preliminary races, including the mixed relays and the first round of World Championships qualification (WCH Q1) for men’s and women’s events. On the final day, athletes will return for the second qualification round (WCH Q2), followed by the World Athletics Ultimate Championship qualification races and the finals.
Officials say the event promises high-intensity competition as nations vie not only for medals but also for places at the next major international championships.
