What actions would you take after getting a guarantee from the national government regarding your problem? You would naturally feel a sense of relief and anticipate a favorable resolution. Similarly, Usain Bolt may have experienced a sense of assurance regarding the recovery of his retirement savings. Over two years ago, his retirement funds suffered a loss of a whopping $12.8 million that had been placed with Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) in Kingston. For someone who once lived his day and night on the track, this fraud is a tremendous attack on his stature, right? 

Since that time, numerous updates have emerged regarding the situation. For instance, in December 2023, Jamaica’s Financial Investigations Division (FID) revealed the existence of a significant scandal that affected over 200 individuals. The then finance minister Nigel Clarke gave repetitive assurances, but still, the investigation has charged only one individual till now. And what about the money recovery? In the podcast ‘The Fix’, Usain Bolt himself said, “It’s been two years. There have been conversations, but nothing has materialized out of those talks. If they were doing enough, it would a reach a certain level already.” And now, his attacks are more sharpened and pointed. It’s not just the government! Bolt now aims to retaliate against everyone who has ‘victim-shamed’ him. You may ask how!

On February 12, the 8-time Olympic champion wrote on X, “In Jamaica when you speak your truth the syndicates & bots will come for you..”  Any idea about ‘syndicate and the bots’? And what have been the reactions till now? First thing first, on February 9, the former Olympian shared a clip of The Fix podcast on X. The video captured Usain’s passionate remarks directed at the stakeholders involved in the current financial dilemma, calling it a circus. Unfortunately, the post on X attracted a lot of commenters who blamed the legend for bringing the Jamaican government’s name into the matter. Why so?

Let us share a comment to explain things better. In the comment box beneath Bolt’s February 9 post, someone wrote, “I understand ur frustration but I know dat ur legal team must ave told u dat the situation is not really govt, it’s btwn u n SSL. Based on wat u ave said FID n the other investigative body shuld giv ur team a constant update of the findings but the legal system have its rules too.” Several such comments have popped under the post since then! But Bolt just took notice and finally made his move with his latest post. But how are the fans taking it this time?

Surprisingly the situation is very different now as the sprint maestro has gained a lot of support from his fans this time around. On X, one such fan wrote, “We SUPPORT YOU BOLT @usainbolt DON’T GIVE UP!!!” The words might give the former athlete a boost in continuing his fight against the issue. However, he is still hanging on to it, without abandoning his ground and his country. But surely, he is far more measured now!

Usain Bolt’s recent post demonstrates that he won’t overlook anything, including the critics who target him for holding prominent figures accountable. Also, he is not possibly thinking of taking all his investments out from Jamaica but he is still not willing to invest more in Jamaica as of now. Such steps may well exacerbate the situation. But for Bolt, the positive reactions always take over. An example? Count the reactions beneath his post from February 12.

Usain Bolt finds fans lined up for him 

“It’s sad this is how they treat one of our own. A man who has done more than any other Jamaican on a Global stage since Bob Marley at least deserves some compassion at this time,” one of his fans wrote on X. Clearly, the post highlights Usain Bolt’s stature and equals him with the global sensation and singer and songwriter from Jamaica Bob Marley. Furthermore, the fan’s words targeted those who prevented Usain Bolt from accessing his money. Remember, the situation was bound to take a height with Bolt’s comments. The continuous disregard from the investigative authorities led him to choose the honorable path. Someone from his fandom pointed out this part and suggested a way to recover his lost money. 

The comment read, “Stay focused legend and try to see what u can get back from those who can give it. That amount of money has to be tied up in assets somewhere. No way it drink out or smoke out or gal out or vacation out.  Find the assets and recover what you can.” Notably, the investigators had once suggested several ways to reach the culprit of the issue. The government agencies promised to recruit key names to unearth the roots. They even charged someone with the case. Yet the net result is zero. So, will the witch hunt for the asset do the job? Doubts are there in the fans’ minds. Why? 

Speaking on this, someone wrote, “When they can’t use you they will try to abuse you.” The point is toward those who have been at the helm since the beginning. However, Bolt is showing no sign of giving up. He will continue his fight. For him, it is not about money anymore. Instead, the battle is to take justice, to get what rightfully belongs to him! Remembering that part of the story, someone wrote, “The truth will forever win.” The maxim might boost Usain Bolt in continuing his fight in the coming days. Undoubtedly, his fans will stand beside him. But, what will be the final verdict? When will it be delivered? Only time will tell!