Prime Minister Andrew Holness is calling on Jamaicans to be understanding of the plight of local athletes who have switched allegiance to other countries, asking for “compassion and thoughtfulness”.

The prime minister made the call on Monday during a special event to commemorate the pending retirement of track star Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce. At the occasion, hosted by the Nike Footwear company, Holness expressed pride in the 38-year-old Pryce, while also drawing attention to the plight of athletes struggling in the current economic environment.

The issue of athlete retention has recently come into the limelight following news that four of Jamaica’s track and field athletes announced their intention to switch their allegiances to the country of Turkey to participate in the 2028 Olympic Games.

The sportsmen involved in this transfer of loyalty are long jump Silver medalist Wayne Pinnock, Gold medalist in discus throwing Rojé Stona, Shot Put Bronze medalist Rajindra Campbell, and triple jump Gold medalist Jaydon Hibbert.

“This development, understandably, has stirred concern and emotions across our country,” the prime minister said. “Our athletes do not just wear the black, green and gold, they carry our hopes, they ignite our passions, they form a prominent part of our collective identity, and so when they choose to compete under a different flag, it feels personal.”

“But,” he continued, “the career of a professional athlete is short and often financially precarious. Athletes, like all of us, must make decisions, not only for themselves, but for their families and their future. And that is the truth, that should be understood.”

Holness stated that efforts to implement the necessary changes to improve Athlete retention were underway, with the PM having reached out to the Sports Minister and others to chart a way forward.

“I’ve asked Minister Grange to lead further consultations with stakeholders, including the federations, the private sector, and national representatives themselves to discuss a new framework for our elite athletes’ development and retention,” he claimed.