Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The World Athletics Council has confirmed Gaborone, Botswana, as the host city for the 2026 World Athletics Relays, scheduled for 2–3 May 2026. This marks the first time Botswana will host a World Athletics Series event. Gaborone has recently raised its athletics profile by staging a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meeting in 2023 and planning another Gold-level event in 2024. Jacob Kelebeng, Minister of Sport and Arts, expressed pride in hosting the event, citing its potential to inspire future generations and draw global attention to Botswana's sporting achievements.
The Bahamas will again host the World Athletics Relays in 2028, set for 22–23 April in Nassau. This will be the fifth time the city hosts the event, following previous editions in 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2024. Mario Bowleg, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, welcomed the return of the relays, recalling the excitement of past competitions and anticipating more success.
Brazil will host the 2026 World Athletics Race Walking Team Championships in Brasília on 12 April 2026. This is the fourth time Brazil hosts a World Athletics Series event, having previously staged competitions in Rio de Janeiro and Manaus. Brazil also hosted the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe emphasized Botswana's commitment to athletics and event hosting, noting these events increase experience and expertise throughout the continent and globally. The Council's announcements were made during its 237th meeting in Nanjing, China.