The British Olympic Association has announced it will ban any gymnastics coach under investigation for abuse from joining Team GB at next year’s Tokyo Games.
The BOA chef de mission, Mark England, appeared to be stunned by the recent revelations in the sport, which has included Olympic medallists Becky and Ellie Downie, Amy Tinkler and Louis Smith all speaking out about the issues they had faced.
England said: “Abuse has no place in sport at all. Our safeguarding at the Olympic Games for athletes is very strong and our processes are rigorous in this regard. And in terms of staffing we are quite clear that anybody that is under investigation in any way, shape or form, would not be part of Team GB.”
On Thursday British Gymnastics announced it had stepped aside from its own review into allegations of widespread abuse after growing criticism it would lack integrity or independence. The review will now be co-commissioned by UK Sport and Sport England.
The British Gymnastics chief executive, Jane Allen, said the decision had been taken to retain the trust of the gymnastics community. “Our priority is to learn the lessons and ensure the welfare of all those within gymnastics,” she added.
UK Sport and Sport England said it was working with the British Athletes Commission and the Child Protection in Sport Unit, to develop the terms of reference and the structure of the review “to ensure it has credibility and the confidence of all of those who have had the courage to come forward”. A confidential helpline is also being set up for British gymnasts who say they have suffered bullying or abuse.
The British Athletes Commission – which had been critical of the original “independent review” set up by British Gymnastics, pointing out that the organisation had chosen the QC who would review the case, agreed the terms of the review and would be paying the QC for her service – welcomed the announcement.
“We look forward to ensuring a truly independent review that can command the confidence of gymnasts and all others affected by the allegations,” it added.
