Changeover error again? Ghanaians react to 4x100m team’s disqualification

Ghanaians are expressing their frustration following the disqualification of the national 4x100m relay team at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The team’s disqualification came after they crossed the finish line in sixth place, but were later removed from the results due to a changeover violation.

🇬🇭 Team Ghana finished sixth in their heat and will NOT qualify for the 4x100m Final. #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/I5LRU15UOv

— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) August 8, 2024

Baton change really messed🇬🇭🇬🇭 Ghana’s race…

More practise time is simply required!!
pic.twitter.com/KAuj3s7EZh

— George Addo Jnr (@addojunr) August 8, 2024

This setback is particularly disappointing as the relay team was Ghana’s last hope for a medal after a challenging campaign in other events. The team, which faced off against strong competitors including Canada, China, Jamaica, France, and Liberia, was unable to secure a spot in the final.

• Paris 2024: Ghana disqualified in 4x100m relay, ending medal hopes
• Ghana ends Paris 2024 Olympics without a medal

Rasheed being the fastest guy in Ghana currently, meaning Azamati shouldn’t have waited that long before moving.🥹

Better luck next time. pic.twitter.com/lW39j86IN5

— Apuu t)) (@kofi_paha) August 8, 2024

The changeover error echoes a similar issue at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where Ghana also failed in the final due to a baton exchange fault. This repeated mistake has only amplified the frustration among Ghanaians, who had high hopes for a successful outing in Paris.

What a big disappointment by Ghana’s relay team. When will we ever get our change over right? Oo Mr Specsman Azamati and Joe Paul😭🤦🏽‍♂️#Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/Tv5LEFXA2s

— Prolific Edward Frimpong 🇬🇭 (@Eddybless100) August 8, 2024

🇬🇭 Most of Team Ghana came onto the scene 3-4 years ago running under 10 seconds.

Joe Paul and Azamati hold National Records that stood since 1990s.

Can we confidently say they have improved since then?

Raw talent can only take you so far in these competitions. #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/SRBQw75cNw

— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) August 8, 2024

The relay team’s disqualification marks a disappointing end to Ghana’s Olympic campaign, with earlier events in swimming, high jump, and the 100m men’s sprint also falling short of expectations.