Headlining the squad are global icons Shericka Jackson and Elaine Thompson-Herah, alongside the men's 100m sensation Kishane Thompson. The selection signals Jamaica’s intent to reclaim its throne as the undisputed capital of world sprinting.
Men’s 4x100m: The Speed Kings Return
The men’s short sprint pool is a mix of veteran experience and explosive youth. Kishane Thompson, fresh off a dominant 2025 season, leads a group that includes Olympic finalist Oblique Seville and indoor standout Akeem Blake.
Full Men's 4x100m Pool:
Kishane Thompson, Oblique Seville, Akeem Blake, Rasheed Foster, Kadrian Goldson, Rohan Watson, Ryiem Forde, Adrian Kerr, Odaine McPherson.
Women’s 4x100m: The Gold Standard
Jamaica is fielding arguably the most decorated women’s relay pool in history. With five-time Olympic gold medallist Elaine Thompson-Herah and 200m world champion Shericka Jackson leading the charge, the team is the heavy favorite to secure gold in Gaborone. The inclusion of the Clayton twins (Tia and Tina) adds a thrilling layer of "new-gen" speed to the veterans.
Full Women's 4x100m Pool:
Shericka Jackson, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Jonielle Smith, Tia Clayton, Tina Clayton, Briana Williams, Jodean Williams, Natasha Morrison, Lavanya Williams.
Quarter-Mile Mastery: 4x400m Squads
The 4x400m units are built around tactical versatility and middle-distance strength. Antonio Watson, a standout performer on the global stage, anchors the men's squad, while the women's team features the hurdle expertise of Rushell Clayton and Shiann Salmon.
Men's 4x400m Pool:
Antonio Watson, Roshawn Clarke, Assinie Wilson, Jevaughn Powell, Deandre Watkins, Jeremy Bembridge, Raheem Hayles, Tajh-Marques White.
Women's 4x400m Pool:
Rushell Clayton, Andrenette Knight, Shiann Salmon, Leah Anderson, Shana Kaye Anderson, Janielle Josephs.
What’s at Stake in Botswana?
The Gaborone 2026 World Relays serve as a critical primary qualifier. The top 14 teams in each of the five relay disciplines (Men’s and Women’s 4x100m, 4x400m, and Mixed 4x400m) will secure automatic entry into the 2027 World Athletics Championships.
"The focus is on execution," a JAAA official noted during the announcement. "We have the raw speed; now it’s about the baton exchanges under the heat of the Gaborone sun."
With home favorite Letsile Tebogo and the Botswana team expected to provide stiff competition on their home turf, the stage is set for an unforgettable weekend of world-class track and field.
Can Jamaica complete a clean sweep of the 100m relay golds in Africa? Share your predictions in the comments below!
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