Star-studded 49-member SA team named for World Athletics Championships

JOHANNESBURG – South Africa has named a star-studded 49-member squad - including Akani Simbine, Adriaan Wildschutt and Prudence Sekgodiso - for next month’s World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

The team includes 32 men and 17 women, with eight national record holders among them: Akani Simbine (100m), Tshepo Tshite (1 500m), Adriaan Wildschutt (10 000m), Antonio Alkana (110m hurdles), Elroy Gelant (marathon), Marione Fourie (100m hurdles), Ashley Erasmus (shot put) and Jessica Groenewald (35km race walk).

“This team reflects the dedication, resilience, and hard work of our athletes, coaches, and support staff, who have tirelessly prepared for this moment on both local and international stages. Their selection is a recognition of excellence and a call to carry the South African flag with honour and pride,” said ASA President James Moloi.

World indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso has also been named, while 400m world record holder Wayde van Niekerk - who won the global 400m title in 2015 and 2017 - will contest the 200m event in Tokyo.

The squad also features four relay teams: the men’s 4x100m team, which won silver at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, and the men’s, women’s and mixed 4x400m teams, who earned gold and bronze medals at the World Athletics Relays.

“South Africa stands behind you, and we believe your performances will inspire the next generation of athletes and reaffirm our place among the world’s athletics nations,” added Moloi.

The World Athletics Championships will be held in Tokyo, Japan, between 13-21 September 2025.