The countdown is on for one of the most exciting team events in global track and field as the 2026 World Athletics Relays head to Gaborone, Botswana on May 2 and May 3. The two-day championship will be staged at the Botswana National Stadium and marks a historic milestone, as Botswana becomes the first African nation to host the prestigious relay competition.
The World Athletics Relays have become a major fixture on the athletics calendar, bringing together many of the fastest nations on earth in a battle for medals, pride, and qualification spots for future global championships. This year’s edition is expected to deliver electric performances, huge crowds, and a powerful celebration of athletics on African soil.
Full Schedule
Competition runs across Saturday and Sunday, with heats, qualification rounds, and finals packed into an intense weekend of sprinting and endurance relay drama.
Saturday, May 2
Mixed 4x100m Heats
Mixed 4x400m Heats
Women’s 4x100m Qualification Round 1
Men’s 4x100m Qualification Round 1
Women’s 4x400m Qualification Round 1
Men’s 4x400m Qualification Round 1
Sunday, May 3
Mixed 4x100m Qualification Round 2
Mixed 4x400m Qualification Round 2
Women’s 4x400m Qualification Round 2
Men’s 4x400m Qualification Round 2
Women’s 4x100m Qualification Round 2
Men’s 4x100m Qualification Round 2
Finals in all six relay events
The schedule ensures drama from start to finish, with nations needing speed, clean baton exchanges, and tactical brilliance to reach the podium.
Stars to Watch
A world-class cast is expected in Botswana, featuring Olympic and world medallists from across the globe.
Letsile Tebogo (Botswana)
Home fans will place huge hopes on sprint superstar Letsile Tebogo, one of Africa’s brightest talents. Competing in front of a home crowd could inspire something special from the Botswana team.
Shericka Jackson and Elaine Thompson-Herah (Jamaica)
Jamaica arrive with proven relay pedigree and elite sprint firepower. Jackson’s strength over 100m and 200m, plus Thompson-Herah’s championship pedigree, make them major contenders.
Kishane Thompson and Oblique Seville (Jamaica)
The Jamaican men’s sprint squad also looks formidable, with raw speed capable of challenging anyone in the 4x100m.
United States Team
The USA always bring depth, and with names like Courtney Lindsey and Ronnie Baker, they remain strong medal threats in multiple disciplines.
Why This Event Matters
Beyond medals, the championships also serve as a qualification route for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing and the new World Athletics Ultimate Championship later in 2026. That means every race carries major importance. Nations cannot afford mistakes, and even qualifying heats will feel like finals.
How to Watch Live
Fans around the world will be able to watch through the World Athletics streaming platform, with local broadcast partners also covering the event in selected territories. In the United States, coverage is scheduled on Peacock.
Supporters should check local listings closer to race day for exact broadcast times.
Final Word
The 2026 World Athletics Relays promise speed, noise, emotion, and unforgettable moments. With Botswana hosting, elite stars competing, and qualification places on the line, Gaborone is set to become the centre of the athletics world for one thrilling weekend. Expect packed stands, roaring crowds, and world-class relay racing.
Be the first to comment