The men’s relay reruns at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo delivered mixed fortunes, with the United States securing a spot in the 4x400m final, while South Africa fell short in their 4x100m time trial.
South Africa’s quartet, who were unable to complete their heat due to a collision with Italy’s Marcell Jacobs during the first exchange, were granted a lifeline following a successful appeal. Officials allowed a solo rerun under strict conditions: the same four athletes, same lane, and a target time of 38.34 seconds to qualify. Despite a valiant effort, South Africa clocked 38.64 seconds, narrowly missing the mark and will not feature in the final.
Meanwhile, the United States overcame their own setback in the 4x400m, where they were obstructed by Zambia during the second changeover of their heat. Alongside Kenya, who were also impeded, USA was granted a head-to-head rerun to determine the final qualifier. In a dominant performance, USA won the race with a time of 2:58.48, securing the ninth and final spot in the final.
This rerun scenario echoes the 2016 Rio Olympics, where the USA women’s 4x100m team received a similar second chance and went on to win gold.
In contrast, Jamaica and Great Britain also failed to qualify for the men’s 4x100m final, but their exits were due to internal errors rather than interference, and no appeals were upheld.