Athletics South Africa (ASA) has announced its intention to suspend its president, James Moloi, following a decision taken during a 10-hour closed ASA Board meeting held on Saturday in Johannesburg.

Moloi has been served with a letter calling upon him to furnish reasons why he should not be suspended, failing which his suspension will automatically follow.

The meeting was convened to consider the official forensic report procured by the country’s Olympic mother body, South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc).

The report followed Sascoc’s probe into revelations made before the Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture regarding the use of an ASA-issued credit card by Moloi.

After extensive deliberations, the ASA board accepted the recommendations contained in the Sascoc report and resolved to:

• Suspend James Moloi indefinitely after giving him an opportunity to furnish reasons why he should not be suspended;
• The ASA disciplinary committee will be called upon to investigate whether any other official of ASA, including its acting chief executive officer and finance manager ought to be subjected to any disciplinary proceedings concerning their role in the use of the said credit card.

ASA has formally notified Moloi in writing of his suspension and has requested him to show cause why the suspension should not be confirmed, binding, or made permanent.

In the absence of Moloi not providing any substantial reasons why he should not be suspended, and in the event of his suspension, the ASA board has appointed deputy president John Mathane as the acting president with immediate effect after the suspension takes effect.

Olympic distance runner Adriaan Wildschutt and national champion Glenrose Xaba will lead the SA men's and women's senior teams at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships to be held in Tallahassee, Florida, on 10 January 2026.

Wildschutt, who finished 10th in the men's 10 000m race at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo last month, will spearhead the six-member squad in the men's 10km race at the biennial showpiece.

He will be joined by in-form SA cross country champion Kabelo Mulaudzi, as well as Bennet Seloyi (who won the recent ASA Cross Country Trials in Tshwane), Sanele Masondo, Chris Mhlanga and Musawenkosi Mnisi.

In the women's 10km race, SA 10km record holder Xaba will line up alongside training partner Karabo Mailula (the winner of the ASA trials), Cacisile Sosibo, Kyla Jacobs, marathon runner Cian Oldknow and Zanele Maisa.

In the senior 4x2km mixed relay, South Africa will be represented by Karabo More, Carina Viljoen, Luan Munnik and Christopher Swart.

The junior men's 8km contest will include Anele Matsoso, Tshepang Tshivhula, Beautin van der Westhuizen, Olerato Mosiloane, Benkosi Maqwara and Junior Noah. The junior women's 6km event consists of Ithuteng Khiba, Lara Stander, Lara van der Merwe, Andrea Steynberg, Omaatla Dikao and Leandri Pretorius.

"We are happy to announce the final team for the 2026 World Cross Country Championships. This team represents the best of South African athletics during selection. We are confident that they will give it their best on the international stage.

"As we prepare for this prestigious event, I want to encourage all South Africans to come together and support our team. Let's show our athletes that we believe in them and are behind them every step of the way. I have no doubt that they will put up a strong fight and make our country proud," said James Moloi, the president of Athletics South Africa.

All roads lead to the Union Buildings in Tshwane on Sunday, where the Region 5 Marathon will set the capital ablaze with colour, culture, and competition.

With entries continuing to roll in and anticipation soaring, organisers are calling on athletes across Southern Africa to secure their spots in what is fast becoming the continent’s most exciting new running spectacle.

Offering R50 000 each for the 21.1km male and female winners, the Region 5 Marathon is raising the bar for regional competition - blending elite athletics, community spirit, and cultural celebration into one unforgettable experience.

“The Region 5 Marathon is not just about running, it’s about showing the world the strength, unity, and talent of our continent,” said South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie. “This is a celebration of health and togetherness, and I’m proud that South Africa is part of it. This marathon is not only for elite athletes, it’s for everyone.

"It’s about thousands of South Africans coming together, getting fit, and building our nation through sport. With big prize money on the table, we are showing our commitment to lifting athletics and creating real opportunities for athletes at every level. I urge all aspiring runners, young and old, to take part in this extraordinary event.”

HISTORIC MILESTONE

Stanley Mutoya, CEO of AUSC Region 5, hailed the event as a “historic milestone” for the region. “It is with great excitement that we announce the hosting of the Region 5 Marathon - a first of its kind in our history.

"We call upon all participants and spectators to come dressed in vibrant African attire, as we turn the streets of Tshwane into a canvas of unity and identity. We further encourage embassies to exhibit and showcase Africa’s rich culinary heritage, making this event not only a sporting spectacle but also a cultural festival.

"Corporates are invited to join hands with Region 5 as this marathon makes a bold activation in the lead-up to the G20 Summit, proving that sport is a unifying force that connects communities, economies, and nations. Importantly, this marathon also serves as South Africa’s strategic build-up to the 13th edition of the Region 5 Youth Games in 2028.

DEFINING MOMENT

Zakhele Dlamini, President of the Southern Africa Confederation of Athletics (SACA), described the event as a defining moment for Southern African athletics. “We are excited about the Region 5 Marathon. This historic event is a catalyst for road running excellence in our region and a platform to inspire participation, performance, and pride among our athletics federations. It marks a bold step in strengthening Southern Africa’s presence on the global athletics stage.”

James Moloi, President of Athletics South Africa (ASA), said the host country is ready to deliver a spectacle worthy of the continent. “The Region 5 Marathon is a proud moment for South Africa and for the entire Southern African athletics family. Hosting this event at the Union Buildings - a symbol of unity and progress - sends a powerful message that our region is ready to lead the future of global road running.

“As ASA, we see this marathon as a springboard for development, giving young athletes, clubs, and communities a reason to dream big. We invite the world to witness what Southern Africa can offer - passion, performance, and pure African energy.”

EVENT DETAILS

• Date: Sunday, 12 October 2025

• Venue: Union Buildings, Tshwane

• Start Times: 21km & 10km at 7am | 5km & Fun Run at 7:15am | 1 Mile (athletes with disabilities) at 10am

• Entry Fees: 5km: R80 | 10km: R150 | 21km: R200

• Closing Date for Entries (extended): 12 midnight, 7 October 2025

• Online Entries: 

• Race Pack Collection: 10–11 October 2025

• Physical entries: 11 October, 10am - 5pm | 12 October before the race

• CT Hotel, 643 Cnr Stanza Bopape & Wessels Streets, Arcadia (opposite Union Buildings)

• Friday: 9am-5pm | Saturday: 9am-2pm

The first 3 000 online entries will receive a free commemorative T-shirt.

All finishers will be awarded medals.

Maxime Chaumeton ran the race of his life on Sunday, producing one of the best road running performances ever achieved by a South African when he shattered the national men's 10km road running record.

Competing at the Brasov Running Festival in Romania, Chaumeton took second place in 26:55, edged out by just one second in a hard-fought contest against Ethiopian athlete Khairi Bejiga who won in 26:54.

In a fast race, the top 10 athletes all ran under 28 minutes.

Chaumeton, the national 5 000m champion on the track, obliterated the SA 10km record of 27:28 which was set by Adriaan Wildschutt in Gqeberha in April.

Delivering an incredible effort, 25-year-old Chaumeton also sliced 41 seconds off his personal best set in Brasov last year, becoming the first SA athlete to dip under 27 minutes over the 10km distance.

"Congratulations to Maxime, his coach and support team! We are proud of this achievement and wish him further conquests. It is always nice when there are new achievers because it grows our pool of high performers in the country. We look forward to others finding inspiration in what they do and to keep going," praised James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa.

Glenrose Xaba left the rest of the field standing as she stormed to victory in the Jozi SPAR Women’s 10 km Challenge at Marks Park Sports Club in Emmerentia on Sunday in 33:07 minutes.

Ethiopian Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank) was second in 33:42 and Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) was third in 34:35.

Van Zyl shot into the lead at the start of the race but dropped back quickly, leaving Xaba to run with Abraya and her Ethiopian teammate Selam Gebre. But by the six-kilometres mark, Xaba was essentially running on her own.

“Irvette got us to a very fast start, and I am grateful for that. Then Selam and Diniya forced the pace until about four kilometres,” said Xaba.

“From six kilometres, I just focused on my splits and on my own running,” she said.

“I am very happy to be the first South African to win all five SPAR Grand Prix races this year, and to have won the SPAR Grand Prix for the third time.”

Abaraya said she felt she had improved with every SPAR race she had run this year.

“I had a good race today, although I found the hills very challenging,”: she said.

Van Zyl, who has three SPAR Grand Prix titles to her name, said she was very happy to be back on the podium.

“I went into the race with no expectations. I felt horrible yesterday and even wondered if I would be able to run. I just wanted to do my best.”

Van Zyk said she was amazed at how the bar was raised in the SPAR Women’s Challenge series every year. “Glenrose has given everyone the belief thar they can do better, and I think the international athletes will soon struggle to win the SPAR Grand Prix again.,” said Van. Zyl

Gerda Steyn, winner of multiple Comrades and Two Oceans marathons, finished in 11th place. She is currently preparing for the Cape Town marathon in two weeks’ time and was using the race as part of her speed training.

“I always look forward to the SPAR Women’s Jozi race,” she said.

“I love the vibe and the experience of running in a women’s only race, I find lining up with thousands of other women inspirational.”

The race was watched by Deputy Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Peace Mabe, who praised SPAR for its support for women’s sports.

“It’s only through sponsorship that women’s sports will flourish, she said.,

“I would like to congratulate SPAR for their support for women’s road running and netball, but also for their campaigns to end gender-based violence and period poverty.”

A capacity twelve thousand runners took part in the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run

SPAR WOMEN’S 10KM CHALLENGE JOZI RESULTS

Results from the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge run at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday

Open: 1. Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) 33:07; 2. Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank) 33:42; 3. Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) 34:35; 4. Selam Gebre (Nedbank) 34:49; 5. Karabo Mailula (Tuks) 35:04; 6. Karabo More (Boxer) 35:22; 7. Mildred Kinyanja (Nedbank) 35:39; 8. Nyaingiri Kemuntu (Nedbank) 35:41; 9. Olga Firsova (Ind) 36P05; 10 Cacisile Sosibo (Boxer) 36:14

Junior: 1. Taya Pelser (Boxer0\ 39:00; 2. Chanell Groenewalt (Boxer) 39:54; 3. Andrea Steynberg (NWU) 40:04

40-49: 1. Olga Firsova (Ind) 36:05; Elizabeth Chenweno (Nedbank) 38:03; 3. Leilani Scheffe (Boxer) 39:32

50-59 1. Elizabeth Potter (Boxer) 43:05; 2. Salome Cooper (Jeppe Quondam) 43:34; 3. Anne Stewart (Atlantic) 43:44

60-69 1. Judy Bird (Boxer) 43:46; Ezna Flattery (Nedbank) 47:14; 3. Grace de Oliviera (Maxed Elite) 49:19

70-79: 1. Winnie Koekemoer (Team Vitality) 59:59; Annatjie Greyvenstein (Irene) 1:06:33; 3. Joan de Klerk (Run Zone) 1:09:01

Some of Athletics South Africa's smaller provinces delivered in spectacular fashion on Saturday, with Anele Matsoso and Ithuteng Khiba winning the men's and women's races at the ASA Junior Cross Country Trials hosted at the Rob Ferreira High School in White River, Mpumalanga.

In the Under-20 women's 6km race, Khiba of Athletics Transkei, earned victory in 20:45.

She finished six seconds ahead of runner-up Lara Stander, who completed the three-lap contest in 20:51, with Lara van der Merwe taking third position in 20:55 for Athletics Gauteng North (AGN).

In the U20 men's race, Matsoso triumphed in 24:04, picking up the win for Athletics Vaal Triangle. He had to dig deep, however, in a tight battle. Tshepang Tshivhula (AGN) was just two seconds back in 24:06 while Western Province athlete Beautin van der Westhuizen, grabbed third spot in 24:07.

The national junior trials, held in conjunction with the SA Schools Cross Country Championships, will be used to select the South African teams for the U20 men's and women's races to be held at the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida in January.

Bennet Seloyi and Karabo Mailula emerged triumphant on Friday, winning the men's and women's 10km races at the ASA Cross Country Trials, which was incorporated into the USSA Cross Country Championships at Tshwane University of Technology.

With spots on the line for the national team to compete at the World Cross Country Championships in the United States in January, Seloyi kicked hard on the final lap to shake off a strong field in the men's race. He completed the five-lap contest in 30:09, finishing nine seconds clear of national marathon record holder Elroy Gelant, who took second place in 30:18. Sanele Masondo was third in 30:24.

Meanwhile, Mailula won the women's 10km battle in 36:16 after delivering a dominant performance. Cacisile Sosibo hung on to Mailula's shoulder for most of the race, but she slipped off the pace on the final lap and settled for the runner-up position in 36:32. Kyla Jacobs ended third in 37:08.

Over the 2km distance, with athletes competing for selection for the mixed relay race at the World Championships, Luan Munnik and Karabo More triumphed in the men's and women's events. Munnik tore around the course in 5:31 to take the men's race, with Christopher Swart finishing second in 5:35 and Abednico Choba grabbing third spot in 5:38.

More was equally impressive in the women's event, winning in 6:20. Carina Viljoen was second in 6:26, and Carmie Prinsloo took third place a further eight seconds back in 6:34.

The ASA junior trials will be held in Whiteriver on Saturday, incorporated in the SA Schools Cross Country Championships.

Elite distance runners from across South Africa will converge on Tshwane and Whiteriver on Friday and Saturday for the ASA Cross Country Trials, to compete for spots in the national team for the 2026 World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida in January.

On Friday, the national senior trials will be held in conjunction with the USSA Cross Country Championships which will be hosted by Tshwane University of Technology.

The senior men's 10km trials race, starting at 11am, will feature 32 athletes including the likes of SA cross country champion Kabelo Mulaudzi (representing Central Gauteng Athletics) and national marathon record holder Elroy Gelant (Athletics Central North West).

In the senior women's 10km contest at 11am, the line-up of 24 runners includes SA champion Glenrose Xaba, her in-form Athletics Gauteng North teammate Karabo Mailula and CGA star Cacisile Sosibo.

The senior trials also include 2km races, from which the national team will be selected for the mixed relay race at the World Cross Country Championships.

The men's field, which gets underway at 10.40am, will feature 18 athletes, spearheaded by SA 2km champion Boikanyo Motlhamme and his CGA teammate Ryan Mphahlele, who recently represented South Africa in the 1500m event at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

The women's line-up is led by national 2km champion Carmie Prinsloo. Their race starts at 10.10am.

On Saturday, the national junior trials will be held in conjunction with the SA Schools Cross Country Championships, hosted by Rob Ferreira High School in Whiteriver, Mpumalanga.

The Under-20 men's 8km race will be held at 8.55am and the Under-20 women's 6km event is at 9.20am.

The South African track and field team was welcomed home by fans, family and friends on Tuesday after representing the country at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan which ended on Sunday.

The relay squad consisting of Wayde van Niekerk, Zakithi Nene, Lythe Pillay, Udeme Okon, Gardeo Isaacs and Leendert Koekemoer, managed to secure South Africa's first medal at the biennial World Championships since 2017, after they were narrowly edged out by Botswana and the United States in the final.

VAN NIEKERK FULL OF PRAISE

The most experienced member of the national squad, 32-year-old sprinter Van Niekerk, said he was delighted to have returned to the podium after finishing fourth as part of the SA men's 4x400m relay team who earned the bronze medal. He returned home with his fourth career World Championships medal and his first in a relay after he won 400m gold in Beijing in 2015, as well as 400m gold and 200m silver in London in 2017.

"This time around I was exposed to the team element of this sport," said the 400m world record holder, who also reached the 200m semifinals in the Japanese capital.

"The last few years I've really been trying to fight for fitness to get into this team and represent the country with them. We've been wanting this opportunity for a very long time now. It's a pity we couldn't come home with that silver, or even the gold medal, but it really shows the reality of where we stand as track and field at this moment. You're standing with a solid group of individuals with so much potential and so much talent."

Team leader, Jean Verster, said they were pleased with the overall results of the SA team, which displayed the nation's growing depth. Aside from the bronze medal in the men's 4x400m relay, there were seven individual athletes and one other relay team who finished in the top 10 in their events.

"Two years ago (at the 2023 World Championships) in Budapest, we had one (individual finalist), Wayde van Niekerk," Verster said. "This year we got a bronze, we had a fourth place (Jo-Ane du Plessis), two fifths with Zakithi (Nene) and Gift (Leotlela), and athletes who finished sixth (mixed 4x400m relay), seventh (Akani Simbine), eighth (Sinesipho Dambile), ninth (Tshepo Tshite) and 10th (Adriaan Wildschutt).

"So there were a lot of positives. There are some events we definitely need to work on, but many of these athletes are youngsters and it can take two, three or even four of these championships before athletes can handle the pressure, which is immense."

The next edition of the World Athletics Championships will be held in Beijing, China in 2027.

Athletics South Africa has announced a 49-member team (32 men and 17 women) for the World Athletics Championships to be held in Tokyo, Japan, between 13-21 September.

The team features eight national record holders, including 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).

Wayde van Niekerk, the 400m world record holder and the only former world outdoor champion in the team (having won the global 400m title in 2015 and 2017), will focus on the 200m event.

Though she hasn't won a world outdoor title, world indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso is also in the squad.

Aside from Van Niekerk, a former Olympic 400m champion, javelin thrower Jo-Ane du Plessis is the only other member of the team to have earned a medal in an individual event at the Olympic Games.

The national squad also includes four relay teams in the men's 4x100m, as well as the men's, women's and mixed 4x400m events.

The men's 4x100m team will be eager to step on the podium after securing the silver medal at last year's Olympic Games in Paris and winning gold at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou earlier this season.

The men's and women's 4x400m squads will also be confident of challenging for podium places after earning gold and bronze respectively at the World Athletics Relays.

James Moloi, President of Athletics South Africa, was optimistic in his comments: “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.

“We urge the athletes to remain focused, disciplined, and united as they take on the world’s best. Championships of this calibre demand not only physical strength but also mental resilience, and we are confident that our team will rise to the occasion.

"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.”

Akani Simbine and Jo-Ane du Plessis shone in their specialist events in Zurich on Thursday night, stepping on the podium at the Diamond League final and showcasing their form ahead of next month's World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Simbine was edged into second place in a tight finish in the men's 100m race at the Diamond League series finale, clocking 9.98 seconds to dip under 10 seconds for the first time in his last five races. Finishing just 0.01 behind American sprinter Christian Coleman, who won the race in 9.97, Simbine was relieved to be finding his best form again a little more than two weeks out from the global championships.

"I was hoping for the win but Coleman just got it," Simbine said after the race.

"It was great to be out here and great to finally find my legs again. I am happy with where we are at right now. Despite the fact that I did not get the diamond, I'm all good and looking forward to the champs."

Behind Simbine, there was disappointment for junior star Bayanda Walaza, who pulled up with a hamstring injury. Looking good for a podium place at the midway stage of the race, Walaza hobbled over the line in 12.10 and was assisted off the track in a clearly emotional state, with his appearance at next month's World Championships now in doubt.

With three South Africans competing in the men's 100m race, Shaun Maswanganyi ended seventh in 10.19.

Olympic silver medallist Du Plessis flaunted her consistency in the women's javelin throw competition.

She landed the javelin at 62.26m with her first attempt, going over the 62-metre mark for the fourth time this season. Elina Tzengko of Greece triumphed with a 64.57m heave and Adriana Vilagos of Slovenia was second with a 62.96m throw.

In other events, world indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso settled for sixth place in the women's 800m race in 1:58.57.

Zeney van der Walt finished eighth in the women's 400m hurdles contest in 56.90, and Rogail Joseph was fifth in the women's 400m hurdles B race, setting a season's best of 56.00.

"We congratulate Akani and Jo-Ane for reaching the podium in their respective events," said James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa. "We are a few weeks to the World champs and it's a crucial and testing phase for every athlete."

Sabelo Dhlamini has become the first South African athlete to set an official national best in the 300m hurdles event.

Competing at the Maribor International Athletics Meeting in Slovenia on Tuesday, Dhlamini won the men's 300m hurdles race in 34.34 seconds.

His performance is the fastest time by a South African, and the seventh fastest in the world, since the 300m hurdles was recognised by World Athletics as an official track event in March.

Though comprehensive statistics are not available for previous seasons, it is believed the fastest time run by a South African before March this year was a hand-timed performance of 34.80 clocked by Ockert Cilliers in Germany in May 2005.

Dhlamini's time will be recognised as a South African best, but official records will not be confirmed in the 300m hurdles until World Athletics confirms that enough races have been held to ensure the event has 'reached a meaningful level'.

“Sabelo’s historic performance in Slovenia is a testament to the talent and dedication of South African athletes. Setting the national best not only raises the bar for our sport but also inspires the next generation of track and field athletes to aim higher and dream big.

"Sabelo’s performance, therefore, highlights the potential that exists within our ranks, and Athletics South Africa remains committed to supporting our athletes every step of the way.”

Following the completion of the 14 league meetings in the series, six South African athletes have made the grade, booking their places in the 2025 Diamond League final to be held in Zurich on Wednesday and Thursday.

While some disciplines will be held on Wednesday, all six SA athletes will compete in their events on the second day of competition on Thursday. Three of the country's fastest men - national record holder Akani Simbine, former Olympic semifinalist Shaun Maswanganyi and junior sensation Bayanda Walaza - will line up in the men's 100m sprint.

Simbine was particularly impressive in the league meetings during the annual series, winning three races in the short dash in the early stages of the campaign.

Three SA women will also turn out in Zurich. World indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso lines up in the 800m contest, Olympic semifinalist Zeney van der Walt goes in the 400m hurdles event, and Olympic silver medallist Jo-Ane du Plessis is in the javelin throw.

In addition, though she won't be challenging for a Diamond League title, Rogail Joseph will compete in the women's 400m hurdles B race on the pre-programme.

“We are proud to see six athletes at the Diamond League final this week," said the President of Athletics South Africa, James Moloi.

"Their qualification for such a prestigious stage is proof of their hard work, discipline, and consistency throughout the season. This is an excellent opportunity to test themselves against the world’s best and to measure their progress ahead of the World Championships in Tokyo next month.

“Let our athletes be reminded that they must remain focused, manage themselves wisely, and not allow the pressure of competing against top-class athletes to distract them from their ultimate goal. We have full confidence that they will represent South Africa with pride, determination, and the spirit of true champions.”

National 400m champion Zakithi Nene also qualified for the final in his event after enjoying a breakthrough season, but he is not able to compete as he is recovering from a niggling injury.

SCHEDULE OF SA ATHLETES:

7:45pm - javelin throw women (Du Plessis)

8:27pm - 100m men (Simbine, Walaza, Maswanganyi)

8:35pm - 400m hurdles women (Van der Walt)

9:09pm - 800m women (Sekgodiso)

Despite unforgiving rainfall, Olympic silver medallist Jo-Ane du Plessis, managed to hold on for second position in the women's javelin throw at the Diamond League meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland on Wednesday night.

Du Plessis landed the javelin at 58.89m, and even though she was well short of Serbian athlete Adriana Vilagos who secured victory with a 63.02m throw, Du Plessis did enough to earn her third Diamond League podium finish of the season.

Also competing in the challenging wet conditions, two other South African athletes gave their best performances of the night.

SIMBINE FOURTH 

In the men's 100m sprint, SA record holder, Akani Simbine, grabbed fourth place in 10.05 seconds. Up front, Jamaican athlete Oblique Seville took a convincing win in 9.87.

Behind Seville, a few athletes crossed the line in a blanket finish in the battle for the remaining podium places, with Simbine narrowly edged out by Olympic champion Noah Lyles of the United States and Jamaica's Ackeem Blake, who both clocked 10.02 in second and third.

After putting up a fight in the women's 800m race while trying to stick with the pace of Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson of Great Britain, world indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso faded in the closing stages.

Hodgkinson tore clear to win in 1:55.69, setting a meeting record, while Sekgodiso settled for sixth place in 1:58.76.

“We are delighted by the performances of our athletes at this meeting where Jo-Ane delivered a brilliant effort to claim the silver medal in bad weather, showing her class and determination on one of the biggest stages in world athletics.

"Her achievement is another proud moment for South Africa and a reflection of the hard work she has put into her career. Congratulations to herself, the coach and her support team.

"Akani, on the other hand, continues to show why he is one of the most respected sprinters in the world. Finishing fourth in a world-class 100m final demonstrates his consistency and ability to compete at the very highest level.

“Prudence, showed courage and potential by finishing sixth in a very competitive 800m field and we are excited about the path ahead of her," said James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa.

With one leg remaining in the league phase of the Diamond League series, to be held in Brussels on Friday night, Du Plessis, Simbine and Sekgodiso have already qualified for the series final taking place in Zurich next week.

The 2025 Lausanne Diamond League, also known as Athletissima, is packed with compelling storylines and elite matchups as it marks the 50th edition of the event and the final stretch before the finals in Zurich.

You can catch all the action live on SuperSport Variety 3 and SS Africa 1 from 8pm.

🔥 Key Storylines & Matchups

Shericka Jackson & Dina Asher-Smith – Women’s 200m battle

Two of the fastest women in the world go head-to-head in the 200m. Jackson, known for her explosive finishes, will face stiff competition from Asher-Smith and rising star McKenzie Long.

Masai Russell & Tobi Amusan – Women’s 100m hurdles

Olympic gold medalist Masai Russell and world record holder Tobi Amusan headline a stacked hurdles field, promising a thrilling race 1.

Audrey Werro & Prudence Sekgodiso – Women’s 800m

Local favourite Werro faces South Africa’s Sekgodiso in a race that could be pivotal for Diamond League points and momentum heading into the World Championships.

POLE VAULT EXTRAVAGANZA

The men’s pole vault features stars like Sam Kendricks, Renaud Lavillenie, and Sondre Guttormsen. With Armand Duplantis holding the stadium record, the bar is literally set high.

SOUTH AFRICAN ATHLETES 

Prudence Sekgodiso – Women’s 800m.

One of South Africa’s brightest middle-distance talents. She’ll be racing against top contenders like Great Britian duo of Keely Hodgkinson and Jemma Reekie, and Audrey Werro of Switzerland.

Akani Simbine – Men’s 100m 

South Africa’s sprint star, has been one of the standout performers in the 2025 Diamond League season.

He already won three Diamond League in Xiamen, Shanghai, and Rabat — all under 10 seconds.

His season best came at the Atlanta City Games were he clocked his season best of 9.86s.

Jo-Ane du Plessis - Javelin thrower

Top javelin thrower, is expected to be among South Africans flying the country’s flag high.

She is up against Colombia’s Flor Ruiz Hurtado, Mackenzie Little from Australia, Japanese Haruka Kitaguchi, Anete Kociņa from Latvia and Tori Peeters of New Zealand.

TOP AFRICAN ATHLETES COMPETING

Letsile Tebogo – Men’s 200m

Botswana’s sprint sensation and Olympic champion is set to face elite competition including Fred Kerley and Erriyon Knighton.

Emmanuel Wanyonyi – Men’s 800m

Kenya’s Olympic champion and one of the fastest 800m runners in history is expected to be a major contender in Lausanne.

Mary Moraa – Women’s 400m

Another Kenyan, known for her aggressive racing style and strong finishes is a favourite in the women’s 400m event.

Marie-Josée Ta Lou – Women’s 100m

Ivory Coast and Africa’s fastest woman and a consistent Diamond League performer will be leading the charge in the women’s sprints.

HISTORIC 50TH EDITION

This year’s Athletissima celebrates its 50th anniversary, adding emotional weight and prestige to every event. Organisers have promised a showcase of the best performances in the event’s history.

🗓️ Event Highlights

August 19: Men's pole vault kicks off the meet.

August 20: Full slate of events including:

100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 5000m

Hurdles (100m, 110m, 400m)

Steeplechase, Long Jump, High Jump, Shot Put, Javelin

4x100m relays

Breakthrough sprinter, Zakithi Nene, delivered another solid result on Saturday, finishing third in the men's 400m race at the Diamond League meeting in London, England.

Nene completed the one-lap race in 44.29 seconds, securing his third podium finish on the Diamond League circuit this season and dipping under 45 seconds for the sixth time this year.

In a blanket finish, British athlete Charles Dobson triumphed in 44.14 and his compatriot, Olympic silver medalist Matthew Hudson-Smith, was second in 44.27. The top five athletes all finished within 0.37.

Meanwhile, South African record holder Akani Simbine (who has won three Diamond League races this year) settled for fifth place in the men's 100m sprint in 10.11.

Oblique Seville of Jamaica won the short dash in 9.86. He was the only athlete in the field to run under 10 seconds, securing a comfortable victory.

The next leg of the Diamond League series will be held in Poland on 16 August.

"Well done Zakithi, coach and support staff. Your perseverance and passion keep bringing you back to the podium," said James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa.

A 70-strong team of athletes depart in two groups on Monday, full of confidence that they will defend their CAA U18 / U20 continental crown in Nigeria.

Split into two because of flight availability, the first group of over 50 members took off at 3am, while the second group is expected to leave around 6pm on Rwandan Airways.

Due to the nature of their flight, the latter group will then have a sleepover in Kigali and resume the journey on Tuesday morning.

At a brief pre-departure meeting held at the OR Tambo Garden Court hotel in Isando, Kempton Park in Johannesburg, the various team managers, led by the head of delegation John Mathane, the newly elected Vice President of ASA, informed parents that their children are in good hands.

The athletes, some of whom were nervous but excited, were addressed on the team protocols, security, general behaviour, their wellbeing, managing expectations and the contrasting weather conditions in West Africa.

Middle-distance runner Tshepo Tshite shattered the South African 1 500m record at the Diamond League meeting held in Paris, France on Friday night.

Tshite finished ninth in 3:31.35, taking more than half a second off the 11-year-old national mark of 3:31.93 set by former World Championships medallist Johan Cronje in Rieti, Italy in September 2013.

Already holding the SA 1 500m (3:35.06) and mile (3:54.10) short track records, 28-year-old Tshite set a national outdoor mark for the first time in his career. In a lightning-fast race, Azeddine Habz of France secured victory in 3:27.49, setting the fastest time in the world this year and dragging five other athletes under 3:30.00.

In another race, Adriaan WIldschutt, the only other South African competing in Paris, settled for 14th position in the men's 5 000m race in 13:28.67. Up front, Yomif Kejelcha of Ethiopia triumphed in 12:47.84.

"As we congratulate Tshite for achieving his fete of breaking a record, we also take the opportunity to encourage all athletes to drastically improve their performances in order to reach podium positions. The rest of the world is doing the same, because Japan won't be easy in September.

"But we definitely don' take anything away from him, for a national record is always an achievement to be celebrated as it becomes a new bench mark for others. We, therefore, congratulate Tshite, his coach and all of his support staff," said James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa.

The next leg of the Diamond League series will be held in Eugene, USA on 5 July.

Two South African athletes reached the podium in their events at the seventh leg of the Diamond League series in Stockholm, Sweden on Sunday night.

World indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso took third position in a hard-fought women's 800m contest, raking in valuable Diamond League series points. She completed the two-lap race in 1:58.00, with Georgia Hunter Bell of Great Britain storming through at the finish to take the win in 1:57.66. Outdoor world champion Mary Moraa of Kenya finished second in 1:57.83, just 0.17 ahead of Sekgodiso.

Though it wasn't a Diamond League race, in the men's 100m contest, Bradley Nkoana took second position in the pre-programme. He crossed the finish line in 10.23 seconds, 0.05 off the pace of Ghanaian athlete Benjamin Asamati, who secured victory in 10.18. South African champion Gift Leotlela was disqualified for a false start.

In the men's 200m, Abduraghmaan Karriem took fifth position on his Diamond League debut, clocking 20.52. Reynier Mena of Cuba claimed the win in 20.05 seconds.

"We have to celebrate every podium finish that is achieved by our athletes," said James Moloi, the president of Athletics South Africa. "This helps to cultivate the culture of top finishes at every competition we enter.

"Also, the performances on any given day help athletes to gauge themselves on how far they are in their readiness and what areas they have to correct. A false start at this point, for instance, has a good side to it, because it helps one to work on his or her take-off concentration in time for Tokyo for the World Athletics Championships in September."

The next leg of the Diamond League series will be held in Paris on Friday.

Zakithi Nene delivered another impressive performance on Friday night, taking second position in the men's 400m race at the Diamond League meeting in Rome, Italy.

Locked in a thrilling battle against Olympic champion Quincy Hall of the United States down the home straight, the South African champion was narrowly edged out on the line. Hall dipped to win by just 0.01, stopping the clock at 44.22, while Nene grabbed the runner-up spot in 44.23.

Photo finish drama 📸

Watch 🇺🇸’s @QuincyHall400 and 🇿🇦’s Zakithi Nene go toe to toe in a thrilling 400m race, finishing just one hundredth of a second apart 🥵

⏰ 44.22 to 44.23#DiamondLeague pic.twitter.com/IcZFcBxCub

— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) June 6, 2025

Collen Kebinatshipi of Botswana finished third in 44.51

"This time is my third fastest time ever. I wanted to win today but this race showed me that I am very consistent in my races," Nene said afterwards.

Zeney Geldenhuys, the only other South African athlete competing in Rome, took sixth place in the women's 400m hurdles contest in 55.29.

Andrenette Knight of Jamaica took the win in 53.67.

"Congratulations for a great performance! Nene definitely gave the Olympic champion jitters and something to think about. Our athletes seem to have found their self-motivation in performances.

"So, as we draw near to the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, we continue to urge all to find the strength and solutions to better their times, distances, and heights, because Japan will be tough in competition," said James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa.