President of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, Garth Gayle, struck a tone of reconciliation and resolve following the dramatic decision by World Athletics to reject the transfer of allegiance requests involving four Jamaican athletes.
“We hold no grudges, our doors are wide open,” Gayle declared, making it clear that the federation is prepared to welcome the athletes back into the national program.
“We are all Jamaicans and once they are in good standing.”
His message was simple, but powerful: whatever paths were considered, there remains a place at home.
A decision that reverberated across the sport
The ruling by World Athletics’ Nationality Review Panel halted the proposed switch to Turkey for a group of 11 athletes, including Jamaica’s Roje Stona, Wayne Pinnock, Rajindra Campbell, and Jaydon Hibbert.
The quartet, each a major figure in Jamaica’s rapidly rising field events program, had been part of a broader international effort to transfer allegiance, a move that ultimately failed under heightened scrutiny from the global governing body.
In a detailed statement, Gayle emphasized that the JAAA respects the authority of World Athletics while maintaining its athlete-first philosophy.
“The JAAA acknowledges the recent decision by World Athletics regarding the applications for transfer of allegiance… We respect the authority and mandate of World Athletics to safeguard the integrity of international competition.”
At the same time, he underscored the federation’s enduring responsibility: “The JAAA remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare, development, and advancement of all Jamaican athletes. Our core responsibility is to nurture and support local talent, ensuring that our athletes are provided with the opportunities, resources, and environment necessary to excel at the highest level.”
A timeline that unfolded publicly
Gayle revealed that the situation first came to the federation’s attention through media reports in April 2025, before being formally confirmed months later.
“The JAAA became aware in April 2025, through public reports in the media, that four Jamaican athletes were seeking to transfer allegiance… The Association later received formal correspondence from the Turkish Athletics Federation in July 2025 confirming the applications.”
Despite the high-profile nature of the case, he noted that the JAAA has historically maintained a consistent position on such matters.
“It is important to note that, historically, the JAAA has never submitted any petition to World Athletics to block athletes from transferring allegiance… the Association has consistently respected the established international processes governing such requests.”
A familiar scenario, a measured response
Gayle also pointed out that this was not unprecedented.
Athletes have explored nationality changes before, sometimes reconsidering along the way, and Jamaica is not alone in facing recruitment efforts from other nations seeking to bolster their ranks.
What stands out this time, however, is the scale and the global attention it attracted.
Perhaps the most striking element of the JAAA’s response is its refusal to alienate the athletes involved.
“To our athletes, we reaffirm that you remain valued members of the Jamaican track and field fraternity. Whether your path continues under the black, green, and gold, or evolves in a different direction, the JAAA stands ready to engage constructively and provide support where possible.”
It is a message that blends institutional authority with national identity, firm, but inclusive.
Looking ahead with clarity and purpose
As the dust settles, the JAAA insists it will remain guided by principle.
“The JAAA will continue to act in the best interests of the sport and all its stakeholders, guided by principles of transparency, fairness, and athlete-centered development.”
In the wake of a decision that could have reshaped Jamaica’s athletics landscape, Gayle’s stance offers a stabilizing note.
No grudges. No barriers.
Just an open door, and a chance to move forward.
