The Ministry of Sports and Recreation (MoSR) has denied responsibility for the travel and logistical challenges faced by Ghana’s 4x100m relay team during their trip to the 2026 World Relays in Gaborone, Botswana.
The Ministry’s response follows public criticism from athletes Abdul Rasheed and Benjamin Azamati. Despite the team securing qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing with a time of 38.09 seconds, the sprinters called for better administrative support. Rasheed urged for improved planning for elite athletes, while Azamati stated the ministry needs to “do better.”
In a statement issued on Monday, May 4, the MoSR clarified that it does not dictate the arrival or preparation timelines for national teams.
“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 statement read.
The Ministry explained that its role is limited to facilitating travel based on schedules provided by the National Sports Authority and the Ghana Athletics Association (GAA). According to the MoSR, it “did not vary or alter the travel schedule as submitted by the Ghana Athletics Association” for the event in Gaborone.
While affirming its commitment to supporting national teams, the Ministry maintained that it operates within established procedures and follows the recommendations of the respective federations.
“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,” the MoSR added.
The Ministry also congratulated the team on their performance, which marks the fourth consecutive time Ghana has qualified for the World Athletics Championships in the 4x100m relay.
“We commend the team for their performance and qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships and wish them continued success,” the statement concluded.