22/06/2025
Dr Gregory Haughton on Jamaican Athletes Switching Allegiances: “It Takes More Than Money”
by Michael Bascombe
In light of the recent wave of Jamaican athletes switching their national allegiances, former Jamaican Olympian Dr Gregory Haughton has offered a thoughtful and heartfelt perspective on the complex issues underlying this trend.
“Now, I know that many people will say it all comes down to money,” Dr. Haughton explained. “But it takes more than money. This is something I want not just the Jamaican federations but all federations across the Caribbean to understand deeply — it is not just about funding.”
Dr Haughton says the relationship between federations and athletes goes beyond financial support. “It’s about how you communicate with the athletes, how you support them emotionally and mentally. When athletes feel ignored, when their struggles and cries for help go unanswered, they begin to feel isolated. And when that happens, any opportunity that presents itself—even from another country—they will seriously consider taking it.”
He expressed a personal sense of pain over the situation. “It hurts me deeply. I understand the athlete’s perspective. I truly do. But from my country’s point of view, it’s heartbreaking. I hope that moving forward, the federations will show more humility, more respect, and above all, more genuine appreciation for the athletes who sacrifice so much to represent Jamaica on the world stage.”
