KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has expressed condolences to the family and friends of sports broadcaster Donald Oliver, as well as to the wider football fraternity, following his passing.

Oliver passed away suddenly on Tuesday morning after reporting chest pains. He was 40 years old.

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In a release the federation noted that Oliver was regarded as a staple voice and face in sports commentary in Jamaica, particularly in football. He worked with several mainstream media entities across the island and the region and played a role in lead commentary for the Schoolboy Football Competition, the Jamaica Premier League, and Reggae Boyz matches in the CONCACAF Nations League and specific friendlies.

“His commentary style was one that brought viewers and listeners to the edge of their seats with his description of goals, players and the atmosphere,” the federation shared.

Beyond football, Oliver also covered major international sporting events, including the Summer and Winter Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games.

During his career, Oliver received several accolades, including the Prime Minister’s Youth Award in Journalism in 2009 and the Best Television Feature/Documentary Award from the Press Association of Jamaica in 2022.

Interim General Secretary of the Jamaica Football Federation, Roy Simpson, also expressed condolences, describing Oliver as the “Jamaican Peter Drury” and said listening to his commentary was a joy, as he represented Jamaicans with pride.

Simpson recalled first meeting Oliver during the 2010 FIFA World Cup at CVM-TV, noting that even then his talent was evident. He said he was deeply saddened by Oliver’s passing and extended condolences to the entire sporting fraternity on the loss of an accomplished football commentator.