Team Ireland has officially arrived in Gaborone, Botswana, as they prepare for the World Athletics Relays 2026, taking place this Saturday and Sunday at the National Stadium.
The Irish squad will compete in the women’s 4x400m, mixed 4x400m, and women’s 4x100m relays, with the goal of securing qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing. The top 12 teams in each event will qualify, while the top six in the mixed 4x400m will also earn places at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest this September.
Sharlene Mawdsley will captain the team, bringing experience and leadership. The Tipperary sprinter is selected across all three relay teams and returns to international competition for the first time since the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.
Sophie Becker and Rachel McCann are also named in the 4x400m squads, continuing their roles as key contributors to Ireland’s relay performances. Rising talents Molly Daly and Erin Friel earn their first senior selections after impressive indoor seasons.
In the mixed relay, Jack Raftery returns alongside Sean Doggett and Fintan Dewhirst, both of whom impressed at the National Indoor Championships earlier this year.
The women’s 4x100m team returns to the event for the first time since 2021. Molly Scott is included again, joined by Ciara Neville, while Precious Akpe-Moses and Katie Bergin could make their senior international debuts.
Qualification Format
Saturday’s heats will see the top two teams from each race automatically advance to Sunday’s finals and secure World Championship qualification.
Teams that do not qualify on day one will have another opportunity on Sunday, where additional qualification spots will be available. Finals will also determine medal positions, prize money, and lane preferences.
Key Schedule (Irish Time)
Saturday, May 2
1:30pm – Mixed 4x400m (Round One)
2:05pm – Women’s 4x100m (Round One)
3:05pm – Women’s 4x400m (Round One)
Sunday, May 3 (subject to qualification)
1:20pm – Mixed 4x400m (Round Two)
1:44pm – Women’s 4x400m (Round Two)
2:30pm – Women’s 4x100m (Round Two)
3:13pm – Mixed 4x400m Final
3:25pm – Women’s 4x100m Final
3:40pm – Women’s 4x400m Final
How to Watch
The event will be streamed live on Eurovision Sport (registration required).
Team Ireland heads into the competition with a blend of experience and emerging talent, aiming to deliver strong performances and secure their place on the global stage.
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Pictured : Team Ireland Captain, Sharlene Mawdsley
Photo : Sportsfile
