Sports Ministry Defends Role After Relay Team Complaints Despite Qualification Success
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has responded to concerns raised by members of Ghana’s men’s 4x100m relay team following their participation at the World Athletics Relays in Botswana.
Ghana secured qualification for the World Athletics Championships after finishing second with a time of 38.09 seconds, clinching the final automatic spot on the second day of competition. However, the achievement was accompanied by criticism from athletes regarding travel arrangements and preparation.
Sprinter Abdul Rasheed Saminu called for improved planning to better support elite competitors, while Benjamin Azamati urged authorities to “do better.”
In an official statement issued on May 3, the Ministry clarified its position, distancing itself from the logistical challenges highlighted by the athletes.
“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 (GAA), regarding travel and preparation arrangements for the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana,” the statement read.
“The Ministry wishes to state clearly that arrival timelines and competition preparation schedules are determined by federation engagements and international competition protocols, and not by the Ministry.
“The role of the Ministry, upon receipt of recommendations from the National Sports Authority and the relevant federation, is to facilitate the procurement of travel arrangements in line with the approved schedule. With specific reference to the World Athletics Relays, the Ministry did not vary or alter the travel schedule as submitted by the Ghana Athletics Association.”
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national teams, adding that it would continue collaborating with the National Sports Authority and relevant federations to improve coordination.
“The Ministry remains committed to supporting all national teams within established procedures and will continue to work with the National Sports Authority and federations to strengthen coordination and ensure optimal preparation conditions for athletes.
“We commend the team for their performance and qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships and wish them continued success.”
Ghana’s qualification marks a fourth consecutive appearance for the men’s 4x100m relay team at the World Championships, reinforcing their growing consistency on the global stage.
