British Olympic Association ‘Dismayed By Legal Tactics’ From Athletes

The British Olympic Association has issued a strong statement in response to continued legal action from major British athletes who dispute IOC ‘rule 40’.

These athletes have been protesting against sponsorship regulations with Mo Farah, Adam Gemili and Katarina Johnson-Thompson among those who are threatening to sue over their potential earnings.

Following a meeting that was conducted last week with representatives of the athletes that the BOA have claimed was productive, they say they are ‘dismayed’ by the continual legal tactics being shown from the opposition.

The statement said: “Despite those encouraging conversations, we have been dismayed by the ongoing legal tactics being conducted in the background, which in no way reflects the spirit of the discussions held.

“Therefore we have been forced to respond fully and robustly to the legal challenge and have done so in the best interests of all of the athletes we serve and the BOA – a not-for-profit independent organisation that receives no taxpayer or Government funds.

“All monies raised by the BOA are prioritised towards providing athletes with the best support in the performance environment. In the four-year period to Tokyo 2020 we will have taken over 700 athletes to nine multi-sport events, including youth Olympic Games and both senior winter and summer Games.

“We reiterate that it is clearly not in the interest of any party to enter into a protracted legal dispute ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

“As such, we continue to act in good faith and make ourselves available for further discussions with a strong desire to find a positive solution for the benefit of all athletes through constructive, open and transparent dialogue.”