Botswana Gears Up to Host World Athletics Relays 2026 — A Defining Moment for Africa

Botswana Gears Up to Host World Athletics Relays 2026 — A Defining Moment for Africa. Botswana is preparing to make history as it gets ready to host the World Athletics Relays Gaborone 2026, marking the first time the global competition will take place on African soil. The event is expected to showcase Botswana’s growing capabilities in sports management, infrastructure development, and international event coordination.

According to the Local Organising Committee (LOC), preparations are progressing steadily and are now in the advanced stages. LOC Chairperson Moses Bantsi confirmed that planning across eighteen functional areas is nearly complete, with the focus now shifting to implementation. “We are currently in the rollout phase, where we put our plans into action,” he explained. “This will continue until February next year, after which we move into the delivery phase.”

The LOC has structured its approach into four key stages — planning, rollout, event delivery, and post-event evaluation — to ensure accountability and precision. Bantsi highlighted that Botswana aims to set a benchmark for excellence, emphasizing that this will be a proud milestone for both the nation and the African continent.

However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly in securing sponsorships and completing infrastructure upgrades. The National Stadium is scheduled for handover on November 18, 2025, while the University of Botswana Stadium will follow by the end of December. Both facilities are being renovated under the Botswana National Sports Commission’s supervision to meet international standards.

Enhancements will include anti-doping control rooms, high-tech security systems, and a modern media tribune capable of hosting journalists from across the globe.