Usain Bolt’s football dream in Australia is over.
The sprint king has officially ended his trial period with the Central Coast Mariners less than two months after his move to the club was trumpeted as a watershed moment for Australian football.
The club released a statement on Friday, declaring the split with Bolt has been amicable.
The Olympic sprint great has been unable to strike a deal with the Mariners, which largely hinged on finding a commercial partner to boost his salary.
Central Coast were understood to have offered Bolt a contract in the vicinity of $150,000, without any guarantee that the Jamaican would get an A-League game.
Currently in Melbourne, Bolt is expected to return to Europe for a pre-arranged appearance.
Mariners owner Mike Charlesworth defended his club’s decision to stand its ground in its contract negotiations with Bolt.
“Despite the fact that we could not come to an agreement that would continue Usain Bolt’s football journey with the Central Coast Mariners, we’ve been thrilled to have the Olympic champion sprinter and world record holder as part of our Club for these past eight weeks,” Charlesworth said in a statement.
“For the Mariners, it’s been a pleasure to work with Usain as he pursued his desire to become a professional football player.
“This has been a mutually beneficial partnership that brought an increased level of excitement and attention to both the Mariners and the Hyundai A-League. From day one, Usain dedicated himself to being part of the Mariners. He integrated very well into the team and made great strides as a footballer.
“Most notable, was his performance in Campbelltown where he scored two goals helping the Mariners secure a 4-0 win against Macarthur South West United.
“Whilst we understand that Usain will not be part of the Club going forward, the Central Coast Mariners wish him all the best in his future endeavours and we hope that opportunities arise to collaborate in other capacities in the future.”
Bolt meanwhile also provided a statement where he said he will be cheering the club on from overseas.
“I would like to thank the Central Coast Mariners owners, management, staff, players and fans for making me feel so welcome during my time there. I wish the club success for the season ahead,” he said.
Mariners chief executive Shaun Mielekamp declared Bolt’s time at the club shows the Central Coast is a desirable home for future marquee stars considering paying in Australia.
He also said the club will consider its options in regards to hunting a marquee signing in January.
“To see the footage (of Bolt) go around the world and to have our club on the world stage in the world media is something we’ll forever be grateful for,” Mielekamp said.
