Ian Kelly, Chef de Mission of Jamaica’s Olympic team in Paris, has confirmed that the country’s star sprinters, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson, have left the athletes’ village following their withdrawal from the competition due to injuries.
Fraser-Pryce, a two-time Olympic champion and the team captain, departed earlier in the week, while Jackson, the reigning world 200m champion, left on Thursday. Kelly explained that their departures align with the Jamaica Olympic Association’s policy, which requires athletes to leave the village within 48 hours of completing their events.
“Shelly-Ann left the village earlier this week, and Shericka left just today. They are not competing, and if you are not competing, there is no need, other than mentorship, for you to be in the village,” Kelly told Observer Online.
Fraser-Pryce withdrew from the women’s 100m semifinal just before the competition began last Saturday, and Jackson pulled out of her event on Sunday. Despite their absence, Kelly assured that the remaining team members are in capable hands.
“There are many senior athletes here in the village, as well as experienced management who have been to many Olympics. The coaches are also here, and they will help guide the process,” he noted.
While Fraser-Pryce and Jackson have been integral figures and role models for the team, the focus now shifts to ensuring that the remaining athletes are fully supported and prepared for their events. The team’s management and coaching staff are equipped to provide the necessary guidance and support to navigate the rest of the Games.
