At the 2025 World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, South Africa and the United States earned the largest prize money shares by winning multiple relay finals. Both countries collected $40,000 for each gold medal in the men’s and mixed 4x400m relays, the events with the highest prize money of $40,000 for first place.
Meanwhile, South Africa claimed gold in the men’s 4x100m and 4x400m relays, earning $80,000 total from these victories. The U.S. won the mixed 4x400m relay, securing $40,000, and also earned prize money for podium finishes in other events. Moreover, Great Britain took home $40,000 for winning the women’s 4x100m relay, while Spain earned $40,000 for their surprise gold in the women’s 4x400m relay.
Fortunately, in the mixed 4x100m relay, which debuted globally at this event, Canada won first place, earning $28,000. The second and third places in this event earned a prize money of $14,000 and $6,000, respectively, lower than the other relays.
Teams finishing second and third in the men’s, women’s, and mixed 4x400m relays received $20,000 and $10,000, respectively. Fourth through eighth places earned a prize money between $8,000 and $2,000, depending on their position, ensuring broad financial rewards across finalists.
The USA and South Africa Secure Top Honours at World Athletics Relays
South Africa and the United States stood out at the 2025 World Athletics Relays due to their exceptional performances in key relay events. South Africa stunned the field by winning both the men’s 4x100m and 4x400m relays, showcasing speed and teamwork.
On the other hand, the U.S. excelled in the mixed 4x400m relay, setting a championship record with strong runs from Chris Robinson, Courtney Okolo, Johnnie Blockburger, and Lynna Irby-Jackson.
Both nations secured early qualification for the Tokyo World Championships, proving their depth on the global stage.
Summary of Key Team Prize Money Earnings from the Finals:
South Africa: $80,000 (men’s 4x100m and 4x400m golds)
United States: $40,000 (mixed 4x400m gold) plus additional sums for other podiums
Great Britain: $40,000 (women’s 4x100m gold)
Spain: $40,000 (women’s 4x400m gold)
Canada: $28,000 (mixed 4x100m gold)
This prize money boost rewards teams’ performances and supports their preparations ahead of the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.