Controversial Botswana Olympic medalist lands major role as coach
Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 13.10.25. | 17:03
The nation has never won an Olympic or World Championship medal on the track, making his appointment an interesting move, especially considering his grey past
After serving a three-year doping ban, Botswana’s Nijel Amos, the eighth-fastest man in history over 800 metres, is taking on a new role: head middle-distance coach for the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The 31-year-old, who owns a lifetime best of 1:41.73, completed his doping suspension in July after testing positive for GW1516, a banned metabolic modulator, during an out-of-competition test in 2022.
"Life is full of unexpected turns, and sometimes, those turns lead us to the most incredible opportunities. Today, I am humbled and excited to begin a new chapter as National middle distance head coach of Islamic Republic of Iran.
This is a chance to share what I’ve learned, to guide and inspire athletes, and to make an impact in a different way. Sport has always been my passion, and now I get to help shape the next generation of champions," Amos announced on his social media accounts.
Amos’ career on the track was among the most impressive of his generation. He won Olympic silver behind Kenya’s David Rudisha at the London 2012 Games, where his 1:41.73 performance stood as a U20 world record and the third-fastest time in history, behind only Rudisha's World Record and Denmark’s Wilson Kipketer. The medal was also Botswana’s first ever at the Olympic Games.
"I know my grandmother would be proud. Her love and guidance continue to inspire me every day. Here’s to embracing new beginnings, chasing purpose, and stepping into this exciting journey with a full heart," Amos continued.
During his ineligibility, the runner went through difficult times. He even tried to sell his medal for $300,000 (Ksh38,769,000) to support his family and cover the more than $65,000 (Ksh8,366,800) he spent on his legal defence.
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He decided to retrain as a coach and completed World Athletics' Level One programme in Zimbabwe, a crucial step in his transition from the track to the sidelines. His opportunity in Iran came just months after serving his ban.
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