Bolt quits Central Coast Mariners

Usain Bolt's trial with Central Coast Mariners has come to an end with the Jamaican sprint king quitting the A-league club.

(Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

The eight-time Olympic gold medal sprint superstar had been on trial with the Gosford-based club since August in an attempt to earn a full-time contract with the A-League side.

Bolt and his agent were unable to come to terms with the Mariners, despite being offered a deal believed to be worth $150,000 for one season.

The Mariners had been in discussions with a number of potential third parties to help boost any deal for Bolt but were 'unable to settle on a suitable deal in a timely manner'.

The 32-year-old had not been training with the club since late august due to the contract stalemate.

Central Coast announced Bolt's departure in a press release on Friday with the Olympic legend expressing his gratitude to the club and their supporters.

“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,” Bolt said.

Central Coast Mariners owner Mike Charlesworth was complimentary of Bolt's time with the A-League club and stressed that Bolt's presence was a major boon for the team both on and off the pitch.

“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.

“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 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 endeavors and we hope that opportunities arise to collaborate in other capacities in the future.”

Bolt last month turned down a two-year deal with Maltese league champions Valetta FC and has been regularly linked to a number of other professional clubs from around the world.

Despite Bolt's determination to complete an unlikely late career change from the track to the football pitch, it is unclear what his next step will be or if he continues to pursue his football dream.