Botswana’s Masalela Stripped of Record-Breaking Victory at Copernicus Cup
Botswana middle-distance runner Tshepiso Masalela experienced a stunning reversal of fortune at the Orlen Copernicus Cup in Torun, Poland, on Sunday, February 23, 2026. Masalela initially crossed the finish line first in the 1500m event, shattering a national record with a time of 3:32.55, but was subsequently disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct. The disqualification has sparked debate among athletes and fans alike.
The 26-year-old’s time would have placed him 14th on the all-time indoor 1500m list, according to Track & Field Gazette, marking a significant breakthrough in his career. Although, officials cited a violation of World Athletics Rule TR 7.1 – improper conduct – after Masalela made what they deemed an aggressive gesture toward France’s Azeddine Habz as he neared the finish line.
Masalela appealed the decision, but it was ultimately upheld. With Masalela’s result nullified, Azeddine Habz was awarded the victory with a time of 3:32.56, just 0.01 seconds slower than Masalela’s original mark. Samuel Chapple (3:32.68) and Samuel Pihlström (3:33.47) rounded out the podium, both setting national short-track records in the process.
The incident occurred as Masalela ran down the homestretch, directing a gesture toward Habz, who was closely pursuing him. Running Magazine reports that the ruling quickly ignited a social media firestorm, with many questioning the severity of the penalty. Former world 100m champion Fred Kerley criticized the call, suggesting a need for change within the sport.
Even Masalela’s coach, Caster Semenya, reportedly protested the decision, but to no avail. According to a source, Habz’s team initially filed the complaint that led to Masalela’s disqualification. Marathon Handbook details the controversy, highlighting the frustration surrounding the ruling.
World Athletics initially celebrated Masalela’s run on its website, even sharing footage of the race, but the video was later removed following the backlash. The disqualification raises questions about the interpretation of unsportsmanlike conduct and the impact of gestures in competitive running. Pro Football Network initially reported on the disqualification, noting the swift turn of events.
