Tokyo 2025
Tokyo 2025: South Africa’s 4×100m Relay Drama as Botswana Celebrates Sprint Medals
Tokyo, Japan – The 2025 World Athletics Championships brought excitement, heartbreak, and history. South Africa’s men’s 4×100m relay team were caught in controversy after a baton mix-up. Neighbouring Botswana, however, enjoyed a golden moment on the track.
South Africa’s 4×100m Relay Controversy
South Africa entered the men’s 4×100m relay with high hopes. A collision during the baton exchange with Italy cost them their chance in the heat. Officials allowed South Africa a rare solo rerun to try again.
The team needed to run 38.34 seconds or faster to reach the final. They pushed hard but could not beat the time. In the final, the United States won gold, Canada took silver, and the Netherlands claimed bronze with a new national record of 37.81 seconds.
South Africa’s dream ended in disappointment, but the young squad showed promise for future events.
Botswana Shines with Sprint Glory
While South Africa fell short, Botswana delivered their best-ever performance. Rising star Busang Collen Kebinatshipi stormed to victory in the men’s 400m, earning gold.
His teammate Bayapo Ndori added to the success by taking bronze in the same race. This double podium confirmed Botswana’s place among the fastest nations in world athletics.
Key Results – Men’s 4×100m Relay Final
- 🥇 United States – Gold
- 🥈 Canada – Silver
- 🥉 Netherlands – Bronze
South Africa – Did not qualify for the final after rerun.
Looking Ahead
The Tokyo 2025 championships showed the highs and lows of global athletics. South Africa will regroup and prepare for Paris 2026. Botswana, meanwhile, has set a new standard for sprinting in Southern Africa.
