Jamaican Long Jump Star Reveals Details of Honest Conversation with Stephen Francis Before Leaving MVP Track Club

Jamaican long jumper Tajay Gayle has opened up about why he chose to leave the MVP Track Club and join the Ricketts Performance Track Club.

The world long jump silver medallist left MVP in 2024, in one of the most low-key exits, and he has since spoken about what led him to depart the training camp and his relationship with head coach Stephen Francis.

In an interview with Sports Chambers, Tajay Gayle detailed the brief conversation he had with Stephen Francis and the initial challenges he had after exiting MVP.

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Tajay Gayle reflected on his departure from the MVP Track Club, admitting that he initially felt anxious about stepping away from the familiar environment where much of his professional life had been managed for him.

He explained that adjusting to greater independence was a challenge he welcomed, as he had always been self-reliant.

Tajay Gayle clarified that his exit was mutual and amicable, describing it as a professional decision reached in agreement with his coach, with whom he still maintains a good relationship.

“They basically take care of everything for you. So, now you're in a world where you have to do everything yourself. But, you know, I've always been by myself since forever,” Tajay Gayle revealed.

“So, that's nothing new for me. It was a challenge, and I like challenges. It wasn't difficult at all. It was basically an agreement between me and the coach, like you know, it's time for us to move on. It wasn't really bad, like I'm out, kind of business. Me and him kind of still cool. We still talk with each other.”

Tajay Gayle recounted his conversation with MVP Track Club head coach Stephen Francis, explaining that their separation was amicable and not the result of any conflict.

He said Francis had initially suggested that he work with coach Kerrylee Ricketts, who specialises in the long jump, but Gayle had also considered training with Shanikie Osbourne to improve his speed.

However, after speaking with Ricketts, Tajay Gayle said the coach assured him that he was capable of handling all aspects of his training.

“So, it wasn't really a battle. I went to him. I went to him. We had a meeting. Well, we spoke for about 30 minutes, I think. And I guess we both agree. And that's that,” he added.

"It was just okay, coach, it's time, and I guess, and he obviously agrees, and initially he was the one who suggested coach Ricketts, but I was thinking to myself, coach Rick is a long jump coach, so I need speed, I need speed as well.

“So, I was thinking, maybe I could go to Miss Osborne for the speed and coach Rick for the jumps, you know, like a double thing, but after I spoke to him on the phone, he said no, man, I can do everything.”

The former world champion has been impressive so far, securing a silver in the men’s long jump at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, and he will be looking to continue the hot streak to next season.