Botswana have etched their name into athletics history by clinching their first-ever relay gold at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, overcoming torrential rain and fierce competition to win the men’s 4x400m in dramatic fashion.
The final came down to an anchor leg duel between two of the world’s finest one-lap runners, Olympic and world 400m hurdles champion Rai Benjamin for the United States and newly crowned world 400m champion Busang Collen Kebinatshipi for Botswana.
Benjamin was handed the baton in the lead and controlled much of the final lap, but Kebinatshipi surged down the home straight, timing his kick to perfection to cross the line in 2:57.76. The USA had to settle for silver in 2:57.83, with South Africa matching the same time to take bronze.
Full Results – Men’s 4x400m Final, Tokyo 2025
- Botswana (BOT) – 2:57.76
- United States (USA) – 2:57.83
- South Africa (RSA) – 2:57.83
- Belgium (BEL) – 2:59.48
- Qatar (QAT) – 3:01.64
- Great Britain & NI (GBR) – 3:03.05
- Jamaica (JAM) – 3:03.46
- Netherlands (NED) – 3:04.84
- Portugal (POR) – 3:09.06
Botswana’s Golden Quartet
The African champions fielded a formidable lineup of Lee Bhekempilo Eppie, Letsile Tebogo, Bayapo Ndori, and Kebinatshipi. Each delivered a flawless performance in treacherous wet conditions at the National Stadium.
Eppie got the team off to a strong start before handing over to sprint superstar Tebogo, who showcased his range beyond the 100m and 200m with a blistering second lap that moved Botswana into the lead. Ndori maintained composure on the third leg before setting up the decisive anchor showdown.
Kebinatshipi, still just in the early years of his career, displayed nerves of steel as he chased down Benjamin and powered away in the closing meters, igniting wild celebrations among Botswana’s athletes and supporters.
Rising Powerhouse
The victory marks a landmark achievement for Botswana, who have steadily risen in the 400m discipline over the past three seasons. Having produced the individual world champion in Kebinatshipi earlier in the championships, the southern African nation now adds the ultimate team prize to its growing list of accolades.
With their gold in Tokyo, Botswana confirmed their status as the new powerhouse in men’s 400m running, toppling traditional giants and delivering one of the most memorable relay finishes in recent championship history.
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