The applications were from various countries, including Kenya, Jamaica, Nigeria and Russia. Among them were high-profile names such as marathon star Brigid Kosgei and Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili. World Athletics said approving these transfers would “compromise” the integrity of its eligibility rules.
According to the panel, the applications were part of a government-backed strategy by Türkiye to attract established international athletes through lucrative contracts, with the aim of strengthening its medal prospects at future events, including the 2028 Olympics.
Rules around nationality transfers were tightened in 2019 to ensure athletes have a genuine link to the country they represent and to prevent what officials have described as the commercialisation of national allegiance.
While the athletes cannot represent Türkiye in international competitions, they remain eligible to compete in club events and road races.