South African sprint star Akani Simbine is set to lead from the front at the World Relays in Guangzhou,China. With over 700 athletes competing in the two-day event, Simbine arrives as South Africa’s most experienced sprinter—and one riding a wave of success.
Earlier this season, he won his first individual global medal. A bronze in the 100m at the World Championships in Beijing.
“It was very special,” Simbine said.“It meant a lot for my confidence and career.”
The medal ended years of near-misses. Simbine had finished fourth more times than he’d like to remember. But he never gave up.
“This medal is a symbol of perseverance and growth,” he said. “It’s the reward that comes with dedication over a decade of elite competition.”
The breakthrough didn’t stop there.
At the Paris Olympics, Simbine anchored South Africa to silver in the men’s 4x100m relay. It was a moment of redemption for a team that had struggled to get it right on the big stage.
“In Paris, everything clicked,” he said. “We always believed we had the talent. We just hadn’t managed to put it together until then.”
Simbine shared that victory with a new generation of sprinters. And for him, that made it even more meaningful.
“It’s about inspiring the next generation,” he said. “Helping them grow, and seeing them succeed alongside me.”
Simbine is also excited about the future of the sport.
He praised the introduction of the Mixed 4x100m Relay, calling it “a great innovation.”
“It adds a new flavor to the sport,” he said. “It challenges countries to build not just fast squads, but balanced, strategic ones.”
He hopes South Africa will soon field a competitive mixed relay team.“We’re ready for it,” he said.
Looking ahead, Simbine is focused on the new World Athletics Ultimate Championships, set for 2026.
He welcomes the event’s fresh format and elite competition.
“It’s a dynamic addition to the calendar,” he said. “The idea of the best going head-to-head is what’s truly exciting.”
For Simbine, it’s less about prize money, more about the challenge.
“Having run in all the traditional championships, this new event presents an opportunity I definitely want to be part of.”
Now a senior figure in the national team, Simbine is embracing his role as mentor and motivator.
“I’m here to guide, inspire, and help us reach new heights,” he said.
His journey—marked by patience, setbacks, and resilience—is now an example for others.And in Guangzhou, he’s determined to lead by example once again.
