World Athletics has made a decisive ruling that could reshape Olympic dreams, rejecting Türkiye’s bid to add 11 international stars to its roster… Yankee Scores reports.
All 11 Applications Denied
The Türkiye Athletics Federation applied for athletes from Kenya, Jamaica, Nigeria, and Russia to switch allegiance ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. World Athletics denied all 11 requests, citing the need to “protect the credibility of national representative competitions.”
Marathon star Brigid Kosgei, middle-distance runner Ronald Kwemoi, and sprinter Favour Ofili were among those affected. Jamaica’s rising talents Jaydon Hibbert and Wayne Pinnock, along with shot putter Rajindra Campbell, also saw their bids rejected.
Council Imperatives Take Priority
World Athletics stressed that mass switches would compromise Council imperatives. As a result, none of the athletes can represent Türkiye in national competitions such as the World Championships or the Olympic Games.
Türkiye’s attempt to strengthen its lineup with global talent has ended, forcing the federation to rely on homegrown athletes for future representation.
Impact on Athletes
For Kosgei, a former world marathon record holder, and Hibbert, a triple jump standout, the ruling is a major setback. Their Olympic ambitions under Türkiye’s flag are now gone.
The decision highlights World Athletics’ firm stance on allegiance changes, reinforcing its commitment to fairness and authenticity in national representation.
Looking Ahead to Los Angeles 2028
With the 2028 Summer Olympics approaching, the ruling sends a clear message: allegiance switches will remain tightly controlled. Türkiye’s hopes of fielding a star-studded roster have been dashed, while the athletes involved must now reassess their paths to Olympic glory.
