In a stunning display of speed and teamwork, the Japanese men’s 4x100m relay team has advanced to the finals of the World Relays in Guangzhou, China, achieving a remarkable time of 37.84 seconds on May 10, 2025. This time ties for the fastest in the world this season and ranks as the eighth best in Japanese history.
The team, consisting of Sanibrown Abdul Hakim, Ryuto Eita, Hiroki Yanagita, and Naoki Iizuka, executed a flawless performance in the preliminary round. Sanibrown, who opened the relay, ran aggressively from the start, setting the tone for the race. He completed his leg in 10.53 seconds, handing off the baton in a strong position. Eita followed with a swift 9.02-second split, maintaining the momentum.
Yanagita showcased his exceptional speed, clocking the fastest split of the preliminary round at 9.19 seconds, which helped propel Japan to the lead. Iizuka, anchoring the team, finished strong with a 9.10-second leg, ensuring a first-place finish in their heat. The team’s aggregate time of 37.84 seconds not only secured their spot in the finals but also matched the time set by South Africa in another heat, illustrating the competitive nature of the event.
This year’s World Relays serves as a crucial stepping stone towards the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, scheduled for September. The top two teams from each heat qualify for the championships, and Japan, as the host nation, has already secured its place. However, the team is eager to prove their mettle on the international stage.
Sanibrown, the team’s most experienced member, spoke at a press conference prior to the event, emphasizing the significance of the relay as a team sport. “Relay is a team sport. Even if individuals may not match the world’s best, the experience passed down from our seniors allows us to compete at a high level. This World Relays is an important event leading up to the World Championships,” he stated, highlighting the team’s determination to perform well.
While Sanibrown is a seasoned competitor, the other members of the team are making their debut in this prestigious relay format. The average age of the team is just 22.7 years, showcasing a blend of youth and potential. The excitement surrounding this young team is palpable, as they aim to deliver a strong performance in the finals.
The preliminary rounds were filled with tension and excitement as teams vied for qualification. Japan’s performance stood out not just for the time but also for the seamless baton exchanges, a critical aspect of relay racing. The team's success reflects their rigorous training and preparation leading up to this event.
In addition to Japan, other notable teams in the men’s 4x100m relay include the United States, which finished with a time of 37.86 seconds, and Canada, which clocked in at 38.15 seconds. The competition is fierce, with top athletes from around the world participating. Among the contenders are L. Tebogo from Botswana, the 200m gold medalist at the Paris Olympics, and K. Bednarek from the USA, who won silver in the same event.
As the finals approach on May 11, anticipation builds for Japan’s young squad. The team’s outstanding performance in the preliminaries has set high expectations, and they are determined to rise to the occasion. With the world watching, the Japanese relay team is poised to make a statement.
Fans are eager to witness the culmination of this journey, especially after the team’s past frustrations in international competitions. The opportunity to compete on home soil at the World Championships adds an extra layer of motivation for the athletes. They aim to deliver a performance that not only secures a medal but also inspires the next generation of athletes in Japan.
In preparation for the finals, the team is focusing on refining their baton exchanges and maintaining their speed. The coaching staff has emphasized the importance of teamwork and communication, essential components for success in relay racing. The excitement is palpable as the athletes gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating final.
As the day of the finals approaches, the athletes reflect on their journey and the hard work that has brought them to this point. With their sights set on the podium, the Japanese men’s 4x100m relay team is ready to take on the world and showcase their talent on a grand stage.
