Kishane Thompson has revealed the impact both Stephen ‘Frano’ Francis and his brother Paul Francis have had on his growth as a sprinter since joining MVP Track Club in 2019.
Reigning Olympic 100m silver medalist Kishane Thompson has opened up about his journey at the MVP Track Club, where he credits the Francis brothers—Paul and Stephen—for transforming him into a world-class sprinter.
Since joining the club in 2019, Thompson has battled adversity, embraced relentless training, and emerged as one of the most promising talents in athletics.
In 2019, coach Paul Francis scouted Thompson, arranging for him to join the University of Technology on a scholarship and train under the guidance of the Francis brothers at MVP Track Club.
Kishane Thompson responds to his coach Stephen Francis’ blunt criticism over the major factor that cost him gold to Noah Lyles at the Paris Olympic games.
Recalling his early interactions with Paul, Thompson told Nationwide 90 FM: “I first saw Paul Francis at the MVP grassroots. We encountered each other more than once. He always hailed me and asked if I was okay.”
Now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in sports management, Thompson balances academic and athletic pursuits while training under the Francis brothers.
Paul Francis played a pivotal role in shaping Thompson’s mental and physical approach to sprinting. “He told me I am talented, but he wanted me to believe in myself and work hard,” Thompson shared.
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Stephen Francis, who has coached Kishane Thompson into becoming one of the most exciting young sprinters in the world, has now told his protege the mistake he made that cost him gold to Noah Lyles at the Olympic final in Paris last August.
Francis echoed these sentiments, describing Thompson as a “special youngster” whose determination and work ethic have fueled his meteoric rise. “Kishane has been with us for four years. He’s had a plethora of injuries that required rehab and strengthening to be competitive,” Francis explained.
“He has worked fastidiously, and I have watched him evolve into a special youngster. Kishane has the confidence to take on just about anyone,” Francis added during an appearance on SPRINT.
Reflecting on his journey, Thompson spoke candidly about the challenges of repeated setbacks. “Honestly, I didn’t think about doing something else,” he said.
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Kishane Thompson has spoken candidly about the role his fraternal twin brother Kishan has played in shaping the sprinter he now is.
“It seemed like I had so much great potential that was so hard to manifest. The more I tried, the more held back I got. It forced me to try even harder. I didn’t give up on myself and did what I had to do, even doing more than I had to do. It kept me grounded. Yes, I felt sad at times, but I had to keep pushing,” Thompson added.
Thompson’s persistence and dedication culminated in a stellar performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he narrowly missed gold in the 100m. With the guidance of Paul and Stephen Francis, he continues to evolve as an athlete, embodying resilience and the drive to compete at the highest level.
As the world watches his career unfold, Thompson stands as a testament to the transformative power of mentorship, hard work, and an unyielding belief in one’s potential.
