Asafa Powell Warns His Children May Represent Other Countries Unless Athlete Support Improves

Sprint icon Asafa Powell has expressed strong concerns about Jamaica’s support for its athletes, warning that his children may not represent the island in international competition unless key systems are improved.

In a recent social media post, Powell responded to widespread excitement over his young son’s athletic potential, following a viral clip of the child winning a school race.

The former 100m world record holder addressed the speculation by stating that, without meaningful change, his children would pursue other national options available to them.

Powell, one of Jamaica’s most celebrated sprinters, pointed out that his wife holds both Canadian and Ghanaian citizenship, which broadens the choices his children will have when deciding their athletic futures.

He noted that many Jamaicans were optimistic about the next generation of talent, but emphasised that admiration alone is not enough to secure their commitment to the national programme.

Reflecting on his own experience, Powell revealed that he once turned down a lucrative offer to switch national allegiance early in his career—an opportunity he now admits he may have reconsidered with hindsight.

The Olympian said his decision at the time was made out of loyalty and hope, but that years of insufficient backing for elite athletes have left him disillusioned.

His comments come amid ongoing frustration from Jamaican athletes who feel under-supported despite delivering world-class results on the track.

Powell’s remarks reignite ongoing concerns about how Jamaica supports and develops its athletes, raising fresh questions about what changes, if any, will be made to keep future stars representing the island.

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