Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Stephen Francis, world-renowned Jamaican sprint coach, has died at age 64, according to World Athletics. He co-founded the MVP (Maximising Velocity & Power) Track & Field Club in 1999 in Kingston, aiming to prove that Jamaican athletes could achieve world-class success under local coaches and management.
Francis was instrumental in guiding athletes including Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Asafa Powell, and Shericka Jackson to Olympic and world medals. The MVP Track & Field Club also coached other medalists such as Elaine Thompson-Herah and Michael Frater. Known as a master of talent identification, Francis helped develop multiple world record-holders and champions.
He held a BSc in management studies from the University of the West Indies and an MBA in finance from the University of Michigan before dedicating himself fully to coaching. In recognition of his impact on athletics, he received the Order of Jamaica in 2017.
The MVP Track & Field Club praised his visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence, which influenced the careers of many athletes and elevated Jamaican athletics globally. Club President Bruce James said Francis changed the trajectory of Jamaican athletics by proving local talent and leadership could achieve the highest levels of success.