In a notable decision, World Athletics has rejected multiple requests for athletes from Kenya, Nigeria, and Jamaica to transfer their allegiance to Turkey, citing concerns over the country’s recruitment strategy. This reflects a broader conversation on the integrity of international sports and the complexities surrounding nationality switches—a practice that has seen both ethical and legal scrutiny amid efforts to attract global talent. The move emphasizes the importance of genuine connections between athletes and the countries they represent, maintaining the spirit of fair play on the world stage.
World Athletics has officially turned down 11 applications for athletes seeking to transfer their allegiance to Turkey, labeling the requests as part of a “coordinated recruitment strategy” orchestrated by the Turkish government aimed at luring overseas talent with lucrative contracts. Among those whose applications were rejected were five prominent Kenyan athletes, including Brigid Kosgei, a former women’s marathon world record holder, along with four Jamaicans, which includes Olympic discus gold medallist Roje Stona and shot put bronze medallist Rajindra Campbell. Additionally, Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili and Russian heptathlete Sophia Yakushina were among the rejected applicants.
According to World Athletics, the Nationality Review Panel determined that granting these applications would undermine existing eligibility standards and the regulations governing allegiance transfers. The panel’s decision underscores the necessity of ensuring that any transfer of allegiance reflects an authentic connection between an athlete and the nation they wish to represent. World Athletics highlighted that the applications appeared to be part of an overarching Turkish government initiative to secure international athletes for major upcoming events, including the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Tightened rules regarding athlete nationality transfers were introduced in 2019, prompted by concerns that certain instances of allegiance switching bore resemblance to human trafficking. This move aims to uphold the integrity and credibility of international athletics while fostering the sport’s global development. In support of its restrictive stance, World Athletics noted that Turkey’s representation in athletics has previously included numerous foreign athletes. For instance, Turkey’s team at the 2016 European Championships featured competitors from countries as diverse as Kenya, Jamaica, and Azerbaijan, showcasing the nation’s history of engaging with international talent.
Furthermore, this situation brings to light the broader trend of countries, including Qatar, employing financial incentives to attract foreign athletes. Notably, Egypt-born weightlifter Fares Ibrahim Hassouna achieved a historic milestone by securing Qatar’s first-ever Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo 2021 Games. Although World Athletics has denied these transfer requests, the athletes involved are still permitted to compete in various events independently and can continue to live and train in Turkey.
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