Stephen Francis of MVP Track Club Admitted to Hospital After Extended Illness

Stephen Francis, a towering figure in Jamaican track and field, is seriously unwell and has been admitted to hospital.

Francis co-founded MVP Track & Field Club — Maximising Velocity and Power — and holds the role of technical director at one of the island’s most successful athletics programmes. He has been sick for several months, and the prolonged absence has fuelled widespread anxiety online. In some cases, social media users circulated claims that he had died.

That wave of rumour prompted MVP to put out an official clarification.

President Bruce James said: “The MVP Track & Field Club is issuing this statement in response to public interest regarding our Co-Founder and Technical Director, Stephen Francis, who is currently receiving medical care in hospital.”

The club’s release, signed by James, added: “Mr Francis is under the care of a dedicated team of medical professionals, and he and his family are grateful for the excellent treatment and support being provided. While there has been understandable concern regarding his well-being, Mr Francis has requested that the details of his medical condition, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis remain private. The Club respectfully asks that his wishes be honoured.”

According to the statement, Francis has given decades to building athletics in Jamaica, mentoring Olympians, world championship medallists, and national representatives while leaving a lasting mark on the sport at home and overseas. James said the flood of concern, prayers, and goodwill has been warmly received by Francis, his family, and everyone connected to MVP.

The club also singled out members of the traditional media, thanking them for the professionalism, sensitivity, and restraint shown in honouring Francis’ privacy.

James stressed that MVP’s immediate focus is backing Francis and his relatives while keeping daily operations steady and athletes prepared for competition. He expressed confidence that existing systems, the coaching staff, and club leadership would maintain the high standard of support for which MVP is known.

The release further asked the public to avoid spreading or encouraging speculation about Francis’ health and to keep respecting his privacy. Any future updates, James noted, would come only through official MVP Track & Field Club channels if Francis or the organisation chooses to share them.

The statement closed with thanks to the public for their understanding, compassion, and continued prayers.