South Africa's athletics relay teams are optimistic despite injuries ahead of the 2026 World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, on 2 and 3 May. The event marks the first time it is hosted on African soil, with Team SA as defending champions in the men's 4x100m and 4x400m events. Preparations included a training session in Johannesburg on 29 April.
On 29 April, South Africa's relay teams trained in Auckland Park, Johannesburg, ahead of the World Athletics Relays. The squad won gold in the men's 4x100m and 4x400m relays, plus bronze in the women's 4x400m, at last year's event in China.
Injuries have hit the women's 4x400m team hardest, with captain Zenéy Geldenhuys, Miranda Coetzee and Shirley Nekhubui sidelined. Stand-in skipper Marlie Viljoen highlighted the 'home-ground advantage' of neighbouring Botswana, noting the short flight and familiarity for South African athletes. 'It feels like you’re just going to a local meet,' she said.
Akani Simbine overcame a minor injury scare from his win at the Akani Simbine Classic on 28 April and is set to compete. Wayde van Niekerk is absent from the men's 4x400m, replaced by Bradley Maponyane in a lineup featuring Zakithi Nene and others.
Athletics South Africa’s Hezekiel Sepeng emphasised embracing the pressure as defending champions. He noted US teams' weakened participation and Jamaican withdrawals but affirmed Africa's rising profile. 'It’s time for Africa,' Sepeng said.
