World Athletics has rejected an application filed by the Türkiye Athletics Federation (TAF) to switch the allegiance of the Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili to the European country, citing a widespread government-back strategy to recruit overseas talents.

The decision was announced in a verdict published on Thursday. The World Athletics stated that following the review of the application submitted by TAF and Ofili’s response by a three-person Nationality Review Panel, the decision not to approve the switch was made. 

“The Application by the TAF for Favour FILI (the “Athlete”) to transfer allegiance from NGR to TUR is not approved,” the panel said in its ruling. 

According to the panel, which included Donna Raynor, Cydonie Motherskill and Susanne van Waert, approving the request would compromise the integrity of the athletics body. 

“Having reviewed the Application, Athlete Declaration, the TAF’s written answers (24 November 2025), the Panel member’s analysis, and the Athlete’s own replies in accordance with Regulation 2.17, the Panel considers that approval of this transfer would impinge upon and compromise the imperatives underlying the Rules and the Regulations,” the panel stated.

It also noted that the application “formed part of a coordinated recruitment strategy led by the Türkiye government acting through a wholly‑owned and financed government club, to attract overseas athletes through lucrative contracts, with the aim of facilitating transfers of allegiance and enabling those athletes to represent Türkiye at future international competitions, including the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.”

Based on the verdict, the 23-year-old is ineligible to compete for Turkey in several tournaments such as the World or Area Championship Events, Olympic Games as well as other relevant competitions. However, she continues to compete in private and club capacity.

“The Panel emphasises that this decision does not prevent the Athlete from (among other things) competing in any one-day meetings in a personal/club capacity, or living, training and competing in TUR generally (or elsewhere),” the verdict stated. 

Meanwhile, Ofili can proceed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport to appeal the decision. She can also decide to stay as an individual or return to competition for the Athletics Federation of Nigeria.