Grange urges empathy over criticism after World Athletics denies transfer of Jamaican athletes to Türkiye

Minister of Sport Olivia Grange says the Government is monitoring developments following a decision by World Athletics to deny requests from 11 athletes, including four Jamaicans, to switch allegiance to the Republic of Türkiye.

The ruling by the organisation’s Nationality Review Panel, handed down on Thursday, has stirred strong reactions across the global track and field community, with particular concern in Jamaica.

World Athletics indicated that the proposed transfers formed part of what it described as a coordinated recruitment effort involving financial incentives, and that the athletes did not demonstrate a genuine link to Türkiye.

The organisation warned that such arrangements could compromise eligibility standards and the integrity of international competition.

Jamaican athletes Jaydon Hibbert, Rajindra Campbell, Wayne Pinnock, and Roje Stona are among those affected, along with Nigeria’s Favour Ofili.

Grange, in a statement Friday, said while the Government respects the authority of the sport’s governing body, it is also mindful of the potential impact on the athletes.

“As a Government, we are duty-bound to respect the ruling of the international governing body for track and field. As the adjudication process is not yet complete, we will refrain from making extensive comments at this time,” she stated.

At the same time, the minister called for Jamaicans to respond with empathy rather than criticism.

"We know that the decision of World Athletics could have real-life consequences for these athletes and, by extension, their families and loved ones. The Government of Jamaica will continue to support our athletes as much as possible and lobby for more to be done in this regard,” Grange said.

She also cautioned against using the issue to attack the athletes.

"This is a serious and sensitive issue and should not be used as an opportunity to condemn anyone. I make that appeal to the public, including users of social media."

Grange expressed confidence that all stakeholders will engage constructively as the situation unfolds.

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