JFF congratulates Gardner on national honour
Published:Friday | August 8, 2025 | 12:10 AMGregory Bryce/Staff Reporter
The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has congratulated former Reggae Boy Ricardo ‘Bibi’ Gardner who is set to be awarded the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer in the National Honours and Awards Ceremony on Heroes Day, October 20.
The JFF’s acting general secretary, Roy Simpson, lauded Gardner as a ‘national treasure’ and a exceptional example of professionalism throughout his career and his personal life.
“‘Bibi’ Gardner is a national treasure. He has served Jamaica with distinction, both on and off the pitch,” Simpson said of the former national player.
“His pride, professionalism, and passion have inspired generations. This national recognition is a fitting tribute to a football icon who continues to contribute meaningfully to the development of our sport. We are immensely proud of him.”
Gardner, who stands as one of the most renowned names throughout the Reggae Boyz programme, earned 110 caps for the national team, which he represented form 1996 to 2012.
A promising player throughout his youth days, Gardner made his debut for the national team while still a schoolboy, playing in the Manning Cup for Wolmer’s Boys.
His impressive performances would see him selected by then head coach Rene Simoes for the successful 1998 France World Cup qualifying campaign, and make the final squad to travel to France.
Gardner featured in all three group stage fixtures, capping off his appearances with an assist for Jamaica’s first-ever World Cup goal against Croatia.
The midfielder became a mainstay in the national programme, representing Jamaica in four Concacaf Gold Cup campaigns – 1998, 2000, 2003 and 2009.
On the club level, Gardner blazed a trail as he made a transfer directly from Jamaica Premier League (JPL) club Harbour View to English outfit Bolton Wanderers.
He would see out a 14-year spell with the club, spending 11 of those years in the Premier League.
His tally of 251 appearances for Bolton Wanderers remains the record for the most appearances made for a Jamaica-born Reggae Boy, and fourth on the all-time list behind Franck Sinclair, 288, Michail Antonio, 268, and Jason Euell, 264.
Following his playing career, Gardner continued to contribute to the development of Jamaican football, as he returned to the JPL as a coach.
He also served a mentor to the Reggae Boyz programme during their 2024 Concacaf Nations League campaign where they team finished third.