Tokyo: Reigning men’s triple jump world champion Hugues Fabrice ZANGO is set to compete on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, in the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships triple jump qualifiers. This event is marked as his last international competition, where the Burkinabe athlete aims to secure his place in the final scheduled for Friday, September 19, 2025, to defend his title.
According to Burkina Information Agency, ZANGO’s goal is to replicate his success from the Budapest 2023 World Championships that elevated him to the pinnacle of the world triple jump. The Tokyo National Stadium holds special significance for him, as it was the venue where he clinched Burkina Faso’s first Olympic medal in 2021. As he prepares to defend his title before retirement, ZANGO is determined and committed to achieving victory for the Burkinabe people. He expressed his confidence and resolve to give everything for his country.
The Minister of Sports, Youth and Employment, Mr. Roland SOMDA, emphasized the unity of the Burkinabe people behind ZANGO, urging him towards victory. The Minister highlighted the support and encouragement from the Burkinabe people and authorities to keep Burkina Faso’s flag flying high in the world of triple jump on September 19, 2025. This sentiment was conveyed to the athletes and technical staff during a visit from Mr. SOMDA, accompanied by Her Excellency Mrs. Bibata OUEDRAOGO/NEBIE, the Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Japan.
ZANGO is set to compete in Group B, consisting of 18 athletes, for the men’s triple jump qualifications scheduled for Wednesday, September 17, 2025, starting at 10:05 GMT (7:05 p.m. local time). To qualify for the final, athletes must achieve a jump of 17.10 m or rank among the top 12 performances out of the 36 athletes in Groups A and B.