Sports Ministry Distances Itself from Ghana 4×100m Relay Team Travel Issues
Ministry says itinerary and logistics were handled by Ghana Athletics and sports authorities
- Sports Ministry says it did not set or alter travel plans for the relay team.
- Athletes complained of long flight and stopover affecting their preparation.
- Ghana Athletics has accepted responsibility and promised improved future planning.
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has distanced itself from concerns surrounding the travel arrangements of Ghana’s men’s 4×100m relay team ahead of the World Athletics Relays in Botswana, stating that it did not determine the team’s itinerary.
In a statement issued on May 4, the Ministry clarified that decisions regarding travel schedules, arrival times, acclimatisation, and competition preparation are handled through consultations between the relevant sports federation and international competition protocols, rather than by the Ministry.
It said the arrangements for the relay team were based on submissions from the National Sports Authority in collaboration with Ghana Athletics, the governing body for athletics in the country.
“The Ministry wishes to state clearly that arrival timelines and competition preparation schedules are determined by federation engagements and international competition protocols, and not by the Ministry,” the statement noted.
The clarification follows public complaints from members of the relay team, who criticised their travel experience, including a long flight and extended stopover. The athletes said the journey left them fatigued and affected their readiness for competition.
The Ministry maintained that it played only an administrative role and did not alter or interfere with the travel plans submitted by Ghana Athletics.
“The Ministry did not vary or alter the travel schedule as submitted by Ghana Athletics,” it stated, adding that it remains committed to supporting national teams through established procedures.
It further assured that it will continue working with the National Sports Authority and sporting federations to improve coordination, planning, and athlete welfare ahead of future international events.
The statement comes shortly after Ghana Athletics acknowledged responsibility for the logistical challenges faced by the team and pledged to improve future arrangements.
