By Our Reporter

Malawi sprinter Asimenye Simwaka has suffered a major setback at the 2026 Commonwealth Games after being disqualified from the women’s 400 metres for breaching World Athletics competition rules.

Race officials ruled that Simwaka violated World Athletics Technical Rule 17.2.3, which requires athletes competing in lane races to remain entirely within their assigned lane throughout the race. The regulation specifically prohibits competitors from stepping on or inside the left-hand lane line while running around bends or, for athletes in the inside lane, crossing onto the kerb or inside track marking.Weekend Top News Round up

Following a review by race officials, Simwaka was disqualified from the event, bringing her hopes of progressing in the women’s 400m to an abrupt end.

The decision is a disappointing outcome for the Malawian athlete, who had been hoping to make an impact in one of the Games’ premier sprint events. Lane infringements are treated seriously under World Athletics regulations to ensure fairness and equal competition among all athletes.Mwenyali Is New Cross Country Champion

Despite the setback, Simwaka still has an opportunity to finish her Commonwealth Games campaign on a positive note. She is set to compete in the women’s 200 metres semi-final at 21:05 this evening, where she will be aiming to secure a place in the final against a strong field of international competitors.

Malawians will now be hoping the talented sprinter can quickly put the disappointment behind her and produce a strong performance in the 200m, keeping alive the nation’s hopes of a memorable finish at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.Mwanyali Wins Mzuzu Half Marathon