Having confirmed their intentions in separate interviews to switch allegiance from Jamaica to Turkey for financial gains, Rajindra Campbell, Wayne Pinnock and Roje Stona could have derailed their dream moves as World Athletics is against what they deemed “mercenary reasons”.

All three athletes have expressed dissatisfaction with the Jamaican government and the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) and have expressed their desire to represent Turkey for the betterment of themselves and their families.

From the moment news broke that four Jamaican athletes were switching allegiance, it was reported that they would receive a down payment of US$500,000 plus other bonuses based on performances that would rise to US$1.5m.

But World Athletics rules on switching of allegiances do not allow athletes to switch for purely financial reasons, or what is called mercenary reasons.

World Athletics generally opposes athletes switching national allegiance solely for financial gain but acknowledges athletes’ right to seek better opportunities. While the organisation has regulations in place to prevent exploitation, the issue of financial inducement remains a concern, particularly for athletes in nations with limited resources. 

While athletes have the right to make choices that benefit them, World Athletics is concerned about the potential exploitation of athletes and the impact on the integrity of the sport. 

World Athletics faces the challenge of balancing the athletes’ right to seek better opportunities with the need to protect the sport from unethical practices and the interests of smaller nations. 

However, World Athletics is sympathetic to athletes from nations without proper training facilities and support systems and may be driven to switch allegiances due to the promise of better financial opportunities. This can include better training facilities, financial support, and overall resources. 

The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) has expressed concerns about athletes switching for financial gain and plans to address the issue at the World Athletics Congress.