Visa Denial Shuts Team Nigeria Out of World Relays — AFN Demands Justice!

Team Nigeria will not participate in the upcoming World Relays in China after seven US-based athletes were denied visas by the Chinese embassy. The team had been scheduled to compete in the men's 4x100m, women's 4x100m, mixed 4x100m, and mixed 4x400m events, which serve as crucial qualifiers for the World Championships.

Despite submitting their applications weeks ago, the US-based athletes were refused entry due to China's strict policies against the United States. Meanwhile, their home-based counterparts were granted visas, highlighting a stark disparity in the application process.

In response, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has lodged a formal petition with World Athletics, requesting a qualification exemption. The petition cites "administrative failure" by both the host nation and World Athletics to guarantee fair access for all athletes, regardless of their residency.

The incident raises questions about diplomatic barriers affecting global sporting events and casts uncertainty on Nigeria's path to the World Championships. AFN is now awaiting a response from World Athletics regarding their appeal.