Global praise pours in for Botswana

A wave of admiration and celebration has continued to pour in from across the globe following Botswana’s successful hosting of the Debswana World Athletics Relays Gaborone 26 held from May 2-3. Even before the relays began, the World Athletics Relays 2026 Facebook page set the tone for the occasion, describing Botswana’s diamond-encrusted medals as a historic first. “In the history of the world, this is a first.

A diamond-encrusted medal. 120 medals to be precise, only in the Republic of Botswana. Be part of history.

Be part of the legacy.” At the close of the event, the organisers again paid tribute to Botswana, writing: “As the dust settles, we take a moment to exhale with pride, on a day to be engraved for the blue, black and white people.” The event attracted worldwide attention, with fans, athletes, diplomats and sports personalities commending Botswana for delivering what many described as a world-class spectacle. Football Intel Africa celebrated Botswana’s historic men’s 4x400m relay triumph, posting: “A happy moment outside football. Congratulations Botswana!

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The first African nation to win the 4x400m relay at the World Championships. Host Botswana closed the World Relays by running the third-fastest men’s 4x400m in history.” From Sao Paulo, Brazil, Tony Tabona praised both the country and its people. “We are a small country, but we have never thought so small.

The world saw that this weekend in Gaborone.” “Botswana sold out a 25 000-capacity stadium, while bigger nations like China and Japan previously failed to attract even 20 000 spectators. Botswana really set the bar high.” The success of the event was also reflected in global viewership figures. Jumpers World reported that more than 102 million people watched the relays through television and online streaming platforms. Gaborone Mayor, Oarabile Motlaleng reportedly said the event significantly boosted Botswana’s global image and tourism profile.

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