Botswana have taken a knock ahead of the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou this weekend, with three of their sprinters withdrawing from the national team, including Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo.
Aside from Tebogo, the Botswana Athletics Association confirmed that Collen Kebinatshipi and Bayapo Ndori had also pulled out of the squad for personal reasons.
Tebogo had been included in the 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams, while Kebinatshipi and Ndori were selected for the 4x400m squad.
“The Botswana Athletics Association board has unanimously agreed that the trio be withdrawn as per their request,” the federation said in a statement.
“The nation must rest assured that the remaining team members will do their best and must rally behind the team as always.”
Though it remained unclear why the athletes had withdrawn, media in Botswana reported that it was due to a pay dispute.
“I wish to clarify that my withdrawal was not a decision taken lightly, nor without due consideration and engagement with relevant stakeholders,” Tebogo said in a statement.
“As stated, a personal decision was made in the best interest of all parties involved, and in full alignment with my long-term goals as a professional athlete.
“I remain fully committed to my country, the team, and the advancement of athletics in Botswana.”
The World Athletics Relays will take place at Guangdong Olympic Stadium on Saturday and Sunday.
Botswana squad, World Athletics Relays
Men
4x100m
Botlhe Gaolatlhe
Godiraone Kevin Lobatlamang
Jayson Game Mandoze
Larona Mayana
Thabang Charles Monngathipa
Karabo Mothibi
Justice Oratile
4x400m
Lee Bhekempilo Eppie
Victor Ntweng
Justice Oratile
Kabo David Rankgwe
Leungo Scotch
Tumo Statago van Wyk
Women
4x400m
Thomphang Basele
Golekanye Kebonye Chikani
Rose Myguel Ditihalo
Obakeng Kamberuka
Batisane Kennekae
Naledi Monthe
Galefele Moroko
Motlatsi Tebalo Rante
Gaolape Senyama
* Featured image of Letsile Tebogo by Cecilia van Bers
