NIGERIAN SPRINT SENSATION FAVOUR OFILI SWITCHES ALLEGIANCE TO TURKEY

Nigerian sprinter and 150m world record holder, Favour Ofili, has reportedly switched her sporting allegiance to Turkey, just three months before the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. According to Jamaica-based journalist Kayon Raynor, Ofili’s switch took effect from May 31, 2025, after she advised the Athletics Integrity Unit of her frustration with the Nigerian Athletics Federation.

Ofili cited repeated administrative failures by Nigerian authorities that affected her Olympic participation as the reason for her decision. “Ofili stated that the Nigerian Athletics Federation caused her to miss the Tokyo 2020 Olympics after they did not confirm her number of doping control tests, and then missed competing in the 100m at the Paris Olympics after they did not enter her for the event. She was sixth in the 200m final,” Raynor revealed.

Despite the switch, World Athletics still lists Ofili as a Nigerian athlete, and she remains among those who have qualified for the upcoming World Championships scheduled from September 13 to 21 in Tokyo. However, her eligibility to compete for Turkey in the championships is uncertain due to the three-year rule.

Ofili’s decision to switch allegiance was reportedly not financially motivated. “It’s further understood that Ofili impressed upon the AIU that her switch to Turkey was not for financial reasons,” Raynor clarified. Nevertheless, reports suggest that Ofili will receive $500,000 for switching allegiance to Turkey.

The 22-year-old made headlines in May by setting a new world record in the 150m, clocking 15.85 seconds to shatter the previous record of 16.23 seconds held by Olympic champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo. Ofili’s switch has sparked reactions, with many Nigerians expressing sadness and disappointment over her decision.