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Favour Ashe Survives False Start Drama as AFN Wins Appeal, Nigerian Sprinter Runs Solo Re-run to Secure 100m Semi-final Spot
Favour Ashe was disqualified for a false start, but the AFN's successful appeal earned him a solo re-run and a place in the semi-finals.
The drama at the 2026 CAA Senior Athletics Championships in Accra took an extraordinary turn on Wednesday, May 13, when Nigerian sprint star Favour Ashe was dramatically disqualified for an alleged false start in the men's 100m heats — moments after crossing the line first in his race. But what followed was a lesson in persistence, quick thinking, and the importance of a responsive athletics federation.
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) immediately filed an official appeal, arguing that the starting gun repeatedly malfunctioned during the heats. After reviewing the evidence, the competition jury upheld Nigeria's protest — a rare and significant victory — and granted Ashe an even rarer second chance: a solo re‑run later that evening.
Running alone on the track under the lights, with no competitors to push him, Ashe clocked 10.55 seconds to place 24th overall. It was not his fastest time, but it was enough to safely secure qualification for the semi‑finals. The sight of a single athlete running a competitive race in a stadium of thousands was one of the most unusual moments of the championships, and a testament to the AFN's determination to protect its athletes.
Nigeria also celebrated success in the field events. Divine Oladipo claimed silver and Obiageri Amaechi grabbed bronze in the women's discus, adding to the country's growing medal tally. The twin podium finishes underscored the depth of Nigeria's squad beyond the headline names on the track.
Ashe's story — from disqualification to a solo reprieve — will be remembered as one of the defining moments of Accra 2026. And with the semi‑finals ahead, the sprinter still has the chance to turn survival into glory.
Stay tuned to Unuevbo TV for continuing coverage of Team Nigeria in Accra and all the drama from the African Athletics Championships.
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