Track and field athlete Rai Benjamin has expressed his disapproval of World Athletics’ latest regulation regarding the relay events, which include the single-gender 4x100m and 4x400m.
Starting in 2026, the new rule will cap single-gender relay substitutions at two athletes between qualifying rounds and finals, effectively requiring at least two athletes from the heat lineup to participate in the final.
What Message Did Rai Benjamin Send After World Athletics’ Relay Rule Change?
This rule is a particular blow to Team USA, which has long relied on resting its top athletes during prelims and unleashing them in the finals – a strategy that has powered their golden runs at major championships.
Benjamin is known for his impressive performances in the relay events, anchoring Team USA to gold in the 4x400m relay at the 2019 World Championships and also winning gold in the relays at the Tokyo Olympics, the 2023 World Championships, and the Paris Games. At this year’s World Championships, he helped the United States earn a silver medal, finishing with a time of 2:57.83.
After the announcement of the rule change, Benjamin took to X, “WHAT ARE WE DOING? L,” he wrote.
The new rule promises to shake up the relay scene, giving countries with less depth a real shot at the podium. While Team USA’s reign may be challenged, their presence in the relay spotlight is far from over.
Benjamin Discusses The Secret To His Success
Benjamin first made his breakthrough in the sport in 2018 during his senior season at USC, where he won the 400m hurdles NCAA title with a time of 47.02 seconds, equaling Olympic icon Edwin Moses’ lifetime best in the event. A year later, he would turn professional and eventually become one of the USA’s standout track stars.
“I’m just having fun. Sometimes people tend to take things way more seriously than they need to in life. In track, it is a sport, so you’re supposed to have fun. Just having fun and being light. I think that’s been my mindset. Having the opportunity to go to different countries and experience different cultures and [meet] people is also interesting.” he said in an interview with Olympics.com, revealing how he approaches competing in an event.
Benjamin also added that he remains strong and calm under pressure, which explains his mindset. “I think that’s my strength. Smooth. That’s it, smooth guy, smooth killer.” he stated.
The New York native also struck gold in the 400m hurdles at this year’s World Championships, and he is already setting his sights on repeating that triumph in the upcoming season.