Norway stuns with gold in women's 4x400m relay, setting a national record

Norway's historic victory at the World Championships

According to Главком: In a stunning upset at the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, Norway's women's 4x400-meter relay team captured the gold medal. The quartet not only secured the top spot but also shattered the national record and posted the fastest time in the world this season, crossing the finish line in 3:20.96.

The Norwegian lineup featured:

• Josephine Tomine Eriksen Aks
• Amalie Juell
• Astri Ertzgaard
• Henriette Jaeger

Earlier in the heats, the Norwegian women had already impressed by setting a national record of 3:22.78. In the final, they shaved nearly two seconds off that time-a remarkable improvement. Henriette Jaeger anchored the team with a blistering 48.91-second split, making a decisive contribution to the victory.

Spain took the silver medal, also setting a national record (3:21.25) while defending their 2025 title. Canada claimed bronze in 3:22.66. Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Italy rounded out the top six.

What this win means for Norway

This triumph is a milestone for Norwegian athletics: the team had never before reached the podium at a world championship or earned medals at continental level. Just last year, Norway finished sixth at the World Championships in Tokyo. Now, this victory guarantees them a spot at the 2027 World Championships in Beijing.

In the additional qualification round, Ireland, France, Poland, and Australia also secured their tickets to Beijing. Ireland won their heat with a time of 3:23.83.

Norway's gold in the women's 4x400m relay not only highlights the rising standard of track and field in the country but also opens up new opportunities for its athletes. This success could fuel further development of athletics programs in Norway and inspire young people to take up the sport. Importantly, Norway now has a chance to showcase its achievements on the global stage at the upcoming competition in Beijing, potentially boosting the sport's popularity among the general public.