Tokyo, 20 September 2025 – A dramatic turn of events in the men’s 4×400 metres relay heats at the World Athletics Championships has led to an unprecedented decision: Kenya and the United States will face off in a re-run race to determine the final qualifier for the championship final.
The Kenyan team was impacted by interference from a Zambian athlete during their heat, but managed to finish the race. Similarly, the USA team, competing in the same heat, was also affected by Zambia’s interference. Due to both teams failing to qualify by place or time, officials have mandated that a re-run will be held to decide the final place in the championship final.
“The KEN athlete is affected by the ZAM athlete, and the team did finish the race. USA, in the same heat 1, was also affected by ZAM,” the official announcement read. “Both teams did not qualify by place or time; therefore, a re-run for one place in the final has to be done. The time of the re-run will be taken by TDs, and teams will be informed accordingly.”
In addition, the Technical Delegates (TDs) also clarified that the teams currently qualified for the final remain so, and this re-run will determine an additional team, making the final field nine teams instead of the usual eight.
“The winner of the re-run will be advanced to the final,” the technical delegates added.
This re-run promises to be a highly competitive showdown as both powerhouse relay teams vie for a frustratingly elusive slot in the championship final. The outcome will not only impact team standings but could influence medal prospects in the event.
Meanwhile, athletics fans and experts now await official word on the timing of the re-run, a situation rare at this level of competition but one that ensures fairness and upholds the integrity of the championships.
Moreover, the decision shines a spotlight on track interference rules and the challenges teams face in fast-paced relay formats on the world stage.
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