Olympic executives to investigate allegations that Belarusian officials attempted to force sprinter home during Tokyo Olympics.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has launched a formal investigation into the situation of Belarus track athlete Kristina Timanovskaya, following allegations that Belarusian officials attempted to force the sprinter home during her Olympic campaign.

Timanovskaya claims that she was removed from competition against her will after criticising her coaches on social media for entering her into the 4×400 meter relay without her consent. 

Mark Adams, a spokesperson for the IOC, says the committee is waiting to receive all sides of the story with the Belarusian National Olympic Committee expected to release a report. 

“These things take time…but we need to get to the bottom of it,” Adams said in a press conference. 

As quoted by the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation, the track athlete says she isn’t concerned about being removed from the team, but rather fears for her welfare.

“I’m afraid that in Belarus, I may be imprisoned. I’m not afraid of being fired or kicked out of the national team. I worry about my safety.

Kristina Timanovskaya

While Timanovskaya remains in Tokyo, she will soon fly out to Poland after receiving a humanitarian visa following her public plea for help. 

Timanovskaya has told the BBC that she is safe, but unable to comment further. 

More details on the investigation to come.

Written by Rebecca Borg