Team Jamaica Sets Two World Records at World Athletics Relays 2026

Team Jamaica Mixed 4x100m Relay World Record Performance

GABORONE, BOTSWANA — Jamaica delivered a historic performance at the World Athletics Relays 2026, setting two world records in 24 hours in the mixed 4x100m relay and capturing gold in dominant fashion.

The quartet of Ackeem Blake, Tina Clayton, Kadrian Goldson, and Tia Clayton first made history on Saturday, May 2, clocking 39.99 seconds in the heats, becoming the first team ever to break the 40-second barrier in the event.

They returned on Sunday, May 3, to surpass that mark, storming to victory in the final with a world-record time of 39.62 seconds, finishing ahead of Canada (40.23) and the United States (40.33).

A Historic 24 Hours for Jamaican Sprinting

The back-to-back performances cement Jamaica’s dominance in global sprinting and marked one of the most impressive relay showings in recent athletics history.

According to competition data, the team improved their own record by 0.39 seconds within a day — a rare feat at the elite level.

Another WORLD RECORD!!!

I am thrilled as Ackeem Blake, Tina Clayton, Kadrian Goldson and Tia Clayton stormed to victory in the mixed 4x100m final at the World Athletics Relays, blazing 39.62!

Two world records in one meet, phenomenal! Jamaica proud again! pic.twitter.com/7t6CoxpKlc

— Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange (@Babsy_grange) May 3, 2026

“It’s All About the Mindset”

Speaking after the race, team member Tina Clayton credited the victory to execution and team unity.

“Once you step on the track, the mindset is always to win,” Clayton said. “Everybody wants to win, but it comes down to execution, getting the baton around cleanly and quickly.”

She added:

“The mindset is knowing that everyone on the team wants the same thing, which is the gold.”

Fellow sprinter Tia Clayton also emphasized the team’s focus and cohesion, describing the performance as a reflection of shared ambition and preparation.

Global Reactions and Podium Finishers

Defending champions Canada secured silver with a time of 40.23 seconds, while the United States took bronze in 40.33 seconds, both finishing behind Jamaica’s record-breaking run.

The results drew global attention, reinforcing Jamaica’s status as a sprint powerhouse and a consistent leader in relay events.

A Symbolic Victory in Botswana

This year’s World Relays, held in Gaborone, Botswana, featured medals embedded with natural diamonds, a nod to the host nation’s status as the world’s leading diamond producer.

“We love it, especially with the diamond in it. We came here for that, so we’re grateful,” Tia Clayton said.

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