Jamaican Olympians Transfer Allegiance to Turkey in Lucrative Deal

In a major shift, Jamaican Olympians Rajindra Campbell and Roje Stona have decided to represent Turkey, stirring conversations across the athletics community. The Trinidad & Tobago Guardian reports that both athletes will benefit from a $500,000 signing bonus, along with continuous financial backing.

Campbell, who secured bronze in the shot put event at Paris 2024, and Stona, who claimed gold by breaking the Olympic discus record, are both linked with this transfer. While Campbell's agent has verified his change of nationality, comments from Stona's representatives and the Jamaica Olympic Association are still pending.

This move follows precedent set by former Jamaicans Jak Ali Harvey and Emre Zafer Barnes, who switched to represent Turkey in 2015, highlighting a trend among Jamaican athletes opting for new national affiliations for better opportunities.

(With inputs from agencies.)