KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) has joined the nation in mourning the passing of renowned track and field coach Stephen Francis, whose life’s work helped establish Jamaica as a dominant force in world athletics and inspired generations of young Jamaicans to pursue excellence.

Francis, co-founder and technical director of the MVP Track Club, died late Saturday, a day after celebrating his 64th birthday.

READ: Stephen Francis, legendary Jamaican track coach, has died

In a statement on Sunday, the Opposition said Francis, affectionately known as “Franno”, was at the forefront of Jamaica’s sporting success.

The PNP said he built a culture of discipline, high performance and belief that produced some of the finest athletes ever to wear black, green and gold. His influence, it said, extended far beyond the track, shaping the lives of countless young people and elevating Jamaica’s reputation across the globe.

Opposition Spokesperson on Sport Wavell Hinds described Francis as one of the principal architects of Jamaica’s rise in international athletics.

“Coach Stephen Francis leaves behind a legacy that few can match. His commitment to excellence, his relentless pursuit of high standards and his confidence in Jamaican talent transformed not only individual athletes but the entire landscape of track and field in our country. His work demonstrated what is possible when talent is matched with discipline, vision and opportunity,” Hinds said.

“The success that Jamaica has enjoyed on the world stage owes much to the foundation he helped build, and future generations of athletes and coaches will continue to benefit from his contribution,” he continued.

Hinds said Francis’ passing was a reminder of the invaluable role coaches play in national development, noting that their influence often extends beyond sport to character building, mentorship and community leadership.

The PNP extended condolences to Coach Francis’ family, the athletes and coaches of the MVP Track Club, the wider athletics fraternity and all Jamaicans mourning his passing, saying his contribution to the nation would long be remembered and his legacy would continue to inspire excellence on and off the track.