Olympic Champion Andre De Grasse Set for 100m Showdown with Akani Simbine at Simbine Classic 2026
PRETORIA, South Africa — The athletics world is turning its attention to Pretoria this Tuesday as Olympic gold medalist Andre De Grasse of Canada prepares to face off against South Africa’s sprint sensation Akani Simbine in the men’s 100 meters at the Simbine Classic 2026. The highly anticipated race, part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver series, marks a rare opportunity for fans to witness two of the fastest men on the planet compete head-to-head on African soil.
The Simbine Classic, named in honor of Akani Simbine, is not just another track meet—it’s a celebration of speed, culture and the growing prominence of African athletics on the global stage. With a record prize purse and a lineup featuring elite international and African talent, the event promises to deliver thrilling performances and a glimpse into the future of sprinting. For De Grasse, the 2020 Olympic 100m champion, this showdown is a chance to reassert his dominance in a discipline where he has consistently proven himself against the world’s best. For Simbine, the home favorite, it’s an opportunity to showcase his speed in front of a passionate local crowd although continuing his mission to elevate South African athletics.
The race is scheduled for 16:05 CAT (Central African Time) on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Pilditch Stadium in Pretoria. Fans across the continent can catch the action live on SuperSport and the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), with the broadcast beginning at 15:00 on SABC Sport and SABC Plus. Highlights will likewise air later in the evening on SABC 2, ensuring that millions of South Africans have the chance to witness this historic event.
A Rivalry Rooted in Speed and Respect
Andre De Grasse and Akani Simbine have been perennial rivals on the track, their paths crossing in some of the most prestigious competitions in the world. De Grasse, known for his explosive starts and smooth acceleration, claimed Olympic gold in the 100m at the Tokyo 2020 Games, where he also secured silver in the 200m. His rivalry with Simbine, however, has been defined by mutual respect and a shared pursuit of excellence. The two sprinters have faced each other multiple times, including at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where Simbine finished fifth in the 100m final, and at the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Doha, where De Grasse took bronze.
Simbine, a multiple African champion and the 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medalist in the 100m, has long been a trailblazer for South African athletics. His personal best of 9.84 seconds in the 100m, set in 2021, remains the African record, and his consistency on the global stage has made him a household name in his home country. The Simbine Classic is not just a race for him—it’s a platform to inspire the next generation of African sprinters and to demonstrate the continent’s growing influence in the sport.
“The vision of the Simbine Classic World Continental Tour is to invite the world to truly experience the spirit of South Africa, its energy, authenticity, and vibrant diversity,” Simbine said in a statement on the event’s official website. “South Africa is a nation rich in culture and unity, and through this event, I want the world to feel that essence, which will be expressed through our passion and love for athletics.”
A Festival of Speed with Global Appeal
The Simbine Classic is more than just a 100m showdown between De Grasse, and Simbine. The event, which is the first World Athletics Continental Tour Silver meeting to be held and produced in South Africa, features a full program of track and field action, including the women’s 100m, long jump, 800m, 3000m, and relay events. The lineup boasts a mix of international stars and rising African talent, making it a true festival of speed.
One of the standout features of the Simbine Classic is its record prize purse, which has been designed to attract top-tier athletes and provide meaningful incentives for both local and international competitors. The event’s organizers have emphasized their commitment to fostering the development of athletics in South Africa, with Simbine playing a central role in its creation and execution. His involvement extends beyond the track, as he has been vocal about his desire to create opportunities for young athletes and to position South Africa as a hub for elite competition.
“This event is about more than just racing,” Simbine told reporters in a recent interview. “It’s about building a legacy for South African athletics and showing the world what we’re capable of. We have so much talent here, and I want to help create a pathway for the next generation to succeed.”
Broadcasting a New Era for African Athletics
The Simbine Classic is also breaking new ground in terms of broadcasting. SuperSport, part of the MultiChoice Group, has partnered with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) to bring the event to a wider audience. The live broadcast on SABC Sport and SABC Plus marks a significant moment for South African athletics, as We see the first time a World Athletics Silver meeting will be aired on free-to-air television in the country. This partnership reflects a broader effort to make elite sports more accessible to African audiences and to inspire young athletes across the continent.
Nomsa Chabeli, the SABC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, underscored the importance of the event in a statement. “With the SABC being the country’s only public service broadcaster, it was imperative that we become part of this ground-breaking initiative by Akani Simbine,” Chabeli said. “He has served as a beacon of inspiration and hope for a multitude of people who love athletics. The SABC’s reach to millions of South Africans will play a major role not only in creating awareness of the event but also in fostering the continued development of the sport in the country.”
Viewers across Africa can also catch the action live on SuperSport, with the pre-program broadcast beginning at 11:30 CAT on SuperSport Variety 4 and Africa 1 (DStv channels 209 and 227). The collaboration between SuperSport and SABC is part of a larger trend of broadcasters working together to expand access to elite sports, as seen in SuperSport’s recent partnership with Botswana Television (BTV) to broadcast the FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix.
De Grasse’s Recent Form and the Road to Pretoria
Andre De Grasse’s journey to the Simbine Classic has been one of resilience and determination. After a challenging period following the Tokyo Olympics, where he battled injuries and form issues, the Canadian sprinter has shown signs of a strong comeback. His victory at the Botswana Golden Grand Prix on Sunday, April 26, 2026, where he cruised to victory in the men’s 100m, was a statement of intent. The win not only demonstrated his readiness for the Simbine Classic but also served as a reminder of his ability to perform under pressure.
De Grasse’s rivalry with Simbine has always been characterized by mutual respect, and the two athletes have pushed each other to new heights over the years. While De Grasse has often been the more decorated of the two on the global stage, Simbine’s consistency and speed have made him a formidable opponent. Their head-to-head record is closely contested, with both athletes having secured victories over the other in various competitions. Tuesday’s race in Pretoria is expected to be another chapter in their ongoing rivalry, with both sprinters eager to claim bragging rights.
For De Grasse, the Simbine Classic is also an opportunity to test his form ahead of the 2026 season, which will include key competitions such as the World Athletics Championships and the Diamond League series. His performance in Pretoria could provide valuable insights into his readiness for the challenges ahead and his ability to compete at the highest level.
The Broader Impact of the Simbine Classic
The Simbine Classic is more than just a sporting event—it’s a symbol of the growing influence of African athletics on the global stage. In recent years, African sprinters have made significant strides in the sport, with athletes like Simbine, Nigeria’s Divine Oduduru, and Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo leading the charge. The Simbine Classic provides a platform for these athletes to showcase their talent and to inspire the next generation of sprinters across the continent.
The event also highlights the importance of homegrown initiatives in developing athletics. Simbine’s involvement in the creation of the Simbine Classic is a testament to his commitment to giving back to the sport and to his country. By hosting a World Athletics Continental Tour Silver meeting in Pretoria, he is helping to put South Africa on the map as a destination for elite competition and to create opportunities for local athletes to compete against the best in the world.
“It’s an exciting time for us in South Africa,” Simbine said in a recent interview with SABC Sport. “We have so much talent, and events like this give our athletes the chance to compete at a high level and to gain exposure. I’m proud to be part of this journey, and I hope that the Simbine Classic will become a staple on the athletics calendar for years to come.”
What to Watch for on Tuesday
As the Simbine Classic approaches, all eyes will be on the men’s 100m, where De Grasse and Simbine will face off in what promises to be a thrilling race. Here are a few key storylines to watch:
- De Grasse’s Comeback: After a period of injury and form struggles, De Grasse’s recent victory in Botswana suggests he is back to his best. Can he carry that momentum into Pretoria and secure another win over Simbine?
- Simbine’s Home Advantage: Racing in front of a home crowd is always a special experience, and Simbine will be eager to feed off the energy of the Pretoria fans. Will he be able to employ that support to his advantage and claim victory on home soil?
- Rising African Talent: The Simbine Classic features a strong lineup of African sprinters, including South Africa’s Gift Leotlela and Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo. Keep an eye on these young athletes as they appear to make their mark on the global stage.
- The Record Prize Purse: With a record prize purse on offer, the stakes are high for all competitors. Will the financial incentives push athletes to deliver their best performances?
The men’s 100m heats are scheduled for 16:05 CAT, with the final expected to take place shortly after. Fans can expect a fast and competitive race, with both De Grasse and Simbine capable of running under 10 seconds in ideal conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Historic Showdown: The Simbine Classic features a highly anticipated 100m race between Olympic champion Andre De Grasse and South African sprint sensation Akani Simbine.
- First of Its Kind: The event is the first World Athletics Continental Tour Silver meeting to be held and produced in South Africa, marking a significant milestone for African athletics.
- Broadcast Innovation: The Simbine Classic will be broadcast live on SABC Sport and SABC Plus, making it accessible to millions of South Africans on free-to-air television.
- Record Prize Purse: The event offers a record prize purse, providing meaningful incentives for both local and international athletes.
- Inspiration for the Next Generation: Akani Simbine’s involvement in the event highlights his commitment to developing athletics in South Africa and inspiring young athletes across the continent.
What’s Next?
Following the Simbine Classic, both De Grasse and Simbine will turn their attention to the upcoming World Athletics Championships and the Diamond League series. For De Grasse, the focus will be on maintaining his form and building toward the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. For Simbine, the goal will be to continue his mission of elevating South African athletics and to inspire the next generation of sprinters.
The Simbine Classic is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting season for athletics. With the World Championships and the Olympics on the horizon, fans can look forward to more thrilling races and historic moments in the months ahead.
Don’t miss the action on Tuesday, April 28, as Andre De Grasse and Akani Simbine go head-to-head in Pretoria. Tune in to SABC Sport or SuperSport to catch all the excitement live. Share your thoughts on the race in the comments below and let us realize who you think will come out on top!