The World Athletics event has attracted top athletes, including Olympic gold medallists from across the world. Eyes will be on local hero, Letsile Tebogo, who will line-up in the 200m whilst Bayapo Ndori in the 400m, is another attraction for the local fans. The budding talent of Bayanda Walaza and his friendly rivalry with countryman, Akani Simbine and with the inclusion of former African champion, Ferdinand Omanyala, has drawn interest in the 100m race.
The 2025 FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix will in addition feature the talents of Olympic medallists such as Ivorian, Marie-Jose Ta-Lou, and two-time World Indoor Champion, Nia Ali of the USA, who will battle in the women's 100m. Former record-holder and two-time world champion, Dalilah Muhammad of the USA will also be in Gaborone for the women's 400m. The competition on the track is high and the bet stakes would have been higher. However, the FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix will not feature on the local sport betting platforms. "No, there is no betting. It is something that World Athletics has not introduced, probably in the future," said Calistus Kolantsho, FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix public relations officer.
The World Athletics regulation denies local fans an opportunity to place bets on their favourite stars. There has been a sport betting frenzy in Botswana, with Betway Botswana announcing it had recently paid out P180, 000 in six weeks.
