KINGSTON, Jamaica — Long jumper Wayne Pinnock, who recently switched national allegiance to represent Turkiye, says his decision was driven by the need to secure a better future for himself and his family, citing a lack of support for athletes in Jamaica.

“Honestly, for me personally, I’m doing this for my family,” Pinnock said in an interview with The Inside Lane. “There’s life after track, and I feel like we don’t really have much in the sport [in Jamaica]. So if we could make as much as possible, I just, I got to do it. I mean, I love my country. I do love my country, but loyalty doesn’t pay bills, as we all know.”

Pinnock, who confirmed the switch for the first time on Saturday, explained that turning down the opportunity to represent Turkiye would have left him with regret.

READ: Long jumper Wayne Pinnock confirms switch of allegiance to Turkiye

“I’m just grateful that God gave me this opportunity. And I feel like if I had turned it down, I would have regretted it. I think Jamaica needs to do better. Because, being honest, if I were to get injured right now, I know Jamaica wouldn’t help me back on my feet for sure. I’d have to cover everything out of my own pocket,” he said.

“So if I can get an opportunity where someone is willing to look out for me and I’ve been doing good for my country then why not? Honestly, I’ve never even received an email saying congratulations. Not even an email,” he added.

Pinnock is one of four Jamaican athletes, including fellow jumper Jaydon Hibbert and throwers Roje Stona and Rajindra Campbell who made the switch earlier this year.

READ: Turkish flight