Asafa Powell Vows His Kids Won’t Represent Jamaica Unless Conditions Improve

Olympian Reflects on Missed Opportunity to Switch National Allegiance

Former 100m world record holder Asafa Powell has declared that his children will not compete for Jamaica unless the country’s athletic support systems improve. He also admitted that, looking back, he might have chosen to represent another nation during his career.

Powell’s comments came in response to social media buzz after a video of his son winning a school race sparked excitement among Jamaicans, with many predicting the youngster would become a future track star for the island.

Addressing the optimism, Powell had a blunt message: “Honestly guys, if the support system doesn’t change, my kids aren’t running for Jamaica. I’m sorry to say that… but it’s just facts. My wife is Canadian and Ghanaian, so there are options.”

The retired sprinter also revealed that in 2006, he was offered millions of U.S. dollars to switch national allegiance. Reflecting on the decision, he said, “It was early in my career—I didn’t know what the future held. But if I knew then what I know now, I would have taken that opportunity.”

Jamaican athletes, despite their global success, have long voiced frustrations over inadequate support from the country’s sporting authorities. Powell’s remarks highlight ongoing concerns about whether Jamaica can retain its top talent in the face of better opportunities abroad.

• 
  Jimmy Cliff: Reggae Trailblazer and Global Icon Passes Away at 81
  Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff—the golden voice behind “The Harder They Come” and “You Can Get It If You Really Want”—has died at age 81. His passing marks the end of an era for Jamaican music and global culture, leaving behind a legacy that shaped reggae’s rise and influenced generations of artists worldwide.
• 
  A Beacon of Truth’: PNP Pays Solemn Tribute to Late Reggae Icon Jimmy Cliff
  Kingston, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) has issued a heartfelt statement joining the nation and the international arts community in grieving the loss of reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff. The 81-year-old music legend passed away on Monday; his family confirmed the cause of death was pneumonia following a seizure.
• Fire Ravages Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records in St. James, Halting Vital Meal Support for Hurricane Survivors
  A pre-dawn fire tore through Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records in St. James, starting on the first floor and spreading quickly through the building. No one was inside the restaurant at the time, but the damage has deeply impacted a crucial community kitchen that had been feeding hurricane survivors daily.
• The true hypocrisy lies in forgiving the colonizers who have never atoned
  The criticism is misplaced. The individual in question has completed his sentence and paid his debt. The true hypocrisy lies in forgiving the colonizers—who have never atoned or paid reparations—while supporting a colonial framework that your Prime Minister profitably upholds as a puppet leader.” The criticism is misplaced….
• 
  RIU Steps Up: Jamaica Hotel Giant Unveils $1 Million Relief Fund After Hurricane Melissa
  In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, RIU Hotels & Resorts has rolled out a major US$1-million relief package to support more than 4,000 Jamaican employees. With over 80% of the funds dedicated directly to staff recovery, RIU’s response shows a strong commitment to rebuilding lives, not just properties.