Sports Ministry Defends Role in Relay Team Travel Dispute After World Relays Qualification
Ghana’s Ministry of Sports and Recreation has responded firmly to concerns raised by members of the national men’s 4x100m relay team, following their impressive yet controversial outing at the 2026 World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana.
Despite securing qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing, the team’s achievement was clouded by complaints over travel arrangements and preparation. Ghana booked their place on the second day of competition, finishing second in a time of 38.09 seconds to claim the final automatic qualification slot.
However, celebrations were tempered by criticism from within the camp. Sprinter Abdul Rasheed called for improved planning from sports authorities, urging better support structures for elite athletes competing on the global stage. Fellow teammate Benjamin Azamati echoed those sentiments, calling on the Ministry to “do better” in future engagements.
In a statement released on Monday, May 3, the Ministry clarified its role, distancing itself from the issues raised. According to the Ministry, travel schedules and preparation timelines are not determined at its level but are instead set by the relevant sporting federations in line with international competition protocols.
“The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has taken note of recent public comments by members of Ghana’s men’s 4x100m relay team, as well as the statement issued by the Ghana Athletics Association regarding travel and preparation arrangements,” the statement read.
It further explained that its responsibility begins after receiving recommendations from the National Sports Authority and the Ghana Athletics Association, at which point it facilitates travel arrangements based strictly on the approved schedule.
“With specific reference to the World Athletics Relays, the Ministry did not vary or alter the travel schedule as submitted,” the statement emphasized.
The Ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national teams, pledging continued collaboration with sporting bodies to enhance coordination and ensure optimal preparation conditions for athletes.
While the administrative back-and-forth continues, Ghana’s qualification marks a significant milestone, as the men’s 4x100m relay team secures a place at the World Athletics Championships for the fourth consecutive time—a testament to their consistency on the international stage.
