Ian Kelly, Chef de Mission of Jamaica’s Olympic team in Paris, has confirmed that the country’s injured star sprinters, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson, have left the athletes’ village in the French capital.

Kelly told Observer Online that Fraser-Pryce, a two-time Olympic champion and the team captain, departed the village earlier this week, while Jackson left on Thursday.

“Shelly-Ann left the village earlier this week, and Shericka left just today. They are not competing, and if you are not competing, there is no need, other than mentorship, for you to be in the village,” said Kelly.

“They recognised it was time for them to leave the village, and as part of the JOA’s (Jamaica Olympic Association) policy, after competing, you have 48 hours to leave the village.”

Fraser-Pryce withdrew from the women’s 100m semifinal just before the start of the competition last Saturday. Jackson, the reigning world 200m champion, withdrew before the start of her event on Sunday.

Kelly noted that while both athletes are highly experienced and serve as role models for the younger members of the team, the management and coaching staff are fully equipped to support the athletes in their absence.

“There are many senior athletes here in the village, as well as experienced management who have been to many Olympics. The coaches are also here, and they will help guide the process,” he said.