McKenzie questions sprinter Adams’ exclusion from SA Olympic squad

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has voiced his opinion on the contentious decision to exclude 200-meter sprinter Luxolo Adams from South Africa’s Olympic team.

Adams received notice of his exclusion last week, despite meeting the qualification standard for the Paris Games.

Minister McKenzie has requested explanations from the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) and Athletics South Africa (ASA) regarding Adams’ unexpected exclusion.

Adams, who qualified for the Olympics in 2023, was eagerly anticipating his first Olympic appearance. However, he has been dealing with a hamstring injury in the months leading up to the Games.

The athlete posted a statement online revealing that he was informed via WhatsApp of his exclusion due to a perceived loss of form. His spot in the 200m event will instead go to 400m world record holder Wayde van Niekerk.

Adams has expressed his intention to take the matter to court, although his chances of success remain uncertain, as SASCOC has not been required to include all qualified athletes in past Olympics.

Minister McKenzie mentioned that they are still waiting for a response from the sports governing bodies.