World Athletics Rejects Turkey’s Bid to Naturalize 11 Athletes Amid Allegations of ‘Purchase’ Strategy
World Athletics has formally rejected Turkey’s application to naturalize 11 foreign athletes for international competition, citing concerns over a strategy involving high-value contracts that undermines the sport’s integrity.
The decision, announced on April 17, 2026, affects athletes from Kenya, Jamaica, Nigeria and Russia who sought to compete under the Turkish flag. Among them are Olympic marathon world record holder Brigid Kosgei of Kenya and Olympic discus champion Roje Stona of Jamaica.
World Athletics stated that the applications were rejected after determining that Turkey’s approach constituted a “high-value contracts strategy” aimed at securing athletic success through financial incentives rather than genuine ties to the country. The governing body emphasized that athletes must demonstrate a genuine connection to their new nation before being eligible to represent it internationally.
According to reports from Turkish officials cited by international media, some of the athletes were slated to receive payments of up to $300,000, with additional monthly salaries ranging from $3,000 to $7,000. Turkish athletics coordinator Onder Ozben described the initiative as a long-term humanitarian citizenship project, though World Athletics rejected this characterization.
The governing body warned that accepting such applications would encourage athletes to pursue nations offering the highest financial incentives, potentially damaging the global diversity and integrity of athletics. It clarified that while the athletes remain free to live and train in Turkey, they will not be permitted to represent the country in international competitions.
Turkey’s recent Olympic performance factored into the context of the bid. At the 2024 Paris Games, Turkey won eight medals — three silver and five bronze — but no gold, finishing 64th in the medal table. The failed naturalization attempt follows a pattern of nations seeking to bolster competitive results through athlete transfers, a practice increasingly scrutinized by international federations.
World Athletics reiterated its stance that nationality changes in sport must be based on genuine residency and integration, not financial transactions. The decision sends a clear message to other nations considering similar strategies that athletic success cannot be purchased.
The rejected applications included:
- Kenya: Catherine Relin Amanang’ole, Brian Kibor, Brigid Kosgei, Ronald Kwemoi, Nelvin Jepkemboi
- Jamaica: Rajindra Campbell, Jaydon Hibbert, Wayne Pinnock, Roje Stona
- Nigeria: Favour Ofili
- Russia: Sophia Yakushina
As of now, there is no indication that Turkey plans to appeal the decision or submit revised applications. The focus remains on developing domestic talent ahead of future international competitions.
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