Kingston, 10 September 2025 – The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has issued the following statement on the passing of Allan Cole.

Minister’s Statement

“I am truly sad at the passing of Allan Cole, who was Jamaica’s greatest footballer.

Skill, as we called him with much affection, was born to play the beautiful game. We recall with much pride that he started his international career for Jamaica just before his 15th birthday — that’s still a national record.

We drew inspiration from his incredible skill and his unmatched records including his exploits in Brazil. Our Jamaican, was the first overseas player to play in the Brazilian league. Just imagine that before Skill, no foreigner had played in the Brazilian league.

In Brazil, Allan not only played against but matched skill with World Cup winners, the great Pele and Jairzinho.

Allan also contributed significantly to Jamaican music in his role as tour manager for Bob Marley and the Wailers and as co-song writer on the band’s mega hit, “War”.

Alan ‘Skill’ Cole was a dedicated son of Jamaica. He was a true patriot who served his country well. He made us walk with our heads held high. We shall never forget his contribution.

I offer my sincerest condolences to his family and all those who will mourn him today. We shall miss him.”


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