Although Samba-Mayela was spotted to have stepped outside of her lane during the race, spurring Nigerians to call for her disqualification, the rule only applies in races with curves such as the 200m and relays.
“They don’t disqualify like that on straight races; it’s only on a curve. As long as there is no infringement, like impeding the other athletes in any way, she will be disqualified, but if she doesn’t, she won’t be disqualified,” Athens 2004 Olympic Games bronze medallist, Deji Aliu, told our correspondent.
Athletics coach and statistician, Lekan Soetan, also said, “In a race that is not bent, you are only running extra distance when you step out of your lane. So, disqualification applies if she impeded another athlete. I’m sure the World Athletics would have removed her if that was the case.”
Aliu and Soetan further explained that Amusan could get a lifeline if any of the finalists withdraw before Saturday’s final.
“That’s a new rule. If someone pulls out before the final, there is a possibility that Tobi can come in,” Aliu also noted.
