Sports

World Relay tickets going fast

Ticketing Chairperson, Naledi Lemogang
 
Ticketing Chairperson, Naledi Lemogang

Ticket sales for the World Athletics Relays have officially gathered momentum, with organisers expressing satisfaction at the response from the public, following the launch of both the exclusive presale and general sales phases.

The much-anticipated global athletics showpiece, to be hosted in Gaborone, opened its exclusive presale on 16 February for registered fans. According to Ticketing Chairperson, Naledi Lemogang, the initial phase was largely successful despite minor technical challenges experienced shortly after the system went live.

“The presale went well even though about an hour after opening we experienced technical issues with online payments. However, the matter was resolved within a few hours and everything is now running smoothly.”

She said the reaction from those who managed to secure tickets during the presale period was encouraging, particularly from local buyers. “The response was satisfying, more especially from Batswana. They did buy tickets

during the presale period and we are happy with the purchases recorded during that time,” she said.

General ticket sales officially opened on 23 February, with all seats now available for purchase. Since the launch of the presale window, sales have continued to rise steadily, a sign, according to organisers, that awareness campaigns are gaining traction and that the public is embracing the fully digital ticketing system.

“It shows that the message is out there, and with the technology that is being used, which is 100 percent online, it is satisfying to see people purchasing tickets,” Lemogang added.

Tickets are available exclusively through the official event website, wregaborone26.com. Organisers have strongly cautioned the public against fraudulent links and unofficial sellers, urging customers to verify the website before

making any transactions.

“We encourage everyone to verify the website before attempting to purchase tickets,” Lemogang stressed. “On our ticketing platform, customers have the opportunity to select exactly where they want to sit using a digital seating map before proceeding to payment.”

In a move aligned with modern global event standards, organisers also confirmed that there will be no printed tickets issued for the event. All tickets will be digital, reinforcing the streamlined and technology driven approach to

hosting.

With the goal of filling the stadium to capacity, the organising committee has encouraged individuals, families and corporate entities to secure their seats early. Bulk purchases by companies and organisations are particularly welcomed as part of efforts to create a vibrant and fully packed venue atmosphere.

Ticket pricing for the general sales phase has been set at P340 for Day One and P480 for Day Two. Beyond the thrilling relay action on the track, organisers have promised a festival-like experience for spectators. Entertainment from various artists will precede the main athletics programme, which is scheduled to begin in the afternoon on both days.

“We want Batswana to own this event and show the world that when given an opportunity to host, the people honour it,” Lemogang said.

The World Athletics Relays is set to take place from 2-3 May 2026 in Gaborone, marking a historic moment as Botswana prepares to host one of the most prestigious track and field relay competitions on the global calendar. The event will attract elite athletes and international audiences, placing the country firmly on the world athletics stage.

Preparations have progressed steadily, with ticket sales now underway and promotional campaigns intensifying in the lead-up to the competition.