Botswana has been officially selected to host the 2026 World Athletics Relays, becoming the first African nation to stage the prestigious global event.
The announcement was made by World Athletics on March 25, 2025, following a rigorous selection process.
The Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) submitted its formal bid on February 21, 2025, aiming to align the event with the nation’s 60th Independence anniversary celebrations in 2026.
A delegation from the World Athletics Bid Committee visited Botswana from February 21 to 23, 2025, to assess the country’s readiness to host the competition.
The BAA emphasized Botswana’s strategic location, vibrant culture, and passionate sporting community in their comprehensive bid.
Oabona Theetso, BAA Vice President for Administration, expressed confidence in Botswana’s ability to deliver a world-class event.
“Botswana has competed in the World Relays for years and now the time has come for us to be the hosts. We have the facilities, the infrastructure, and a government committed to promoting sports tourism.” Theetso stated.
The country has produced world-class athletes, including sprint sensation Letsile Tebogo, who won the gold medal in the 200 meters at the 2024 Paris Olympics, earning Botswana’s first-ever Olympic gold.
