Australia scoff at racism claim

Sydney - Athletics Australia have rejected claims of racial vilification and discrimination made by 400-metre runner John Steffensen before the London Olympics.

Steffensen, born in Australia and of African heritage, claimed racism was behind him not getting a starting berth in the individual 400-meters at London.

The 2006 Commonwealth Games champion also claimed he was the subject of racial slurs by team officials during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Athletics Australia said in a statement on Thursday that the racial vilification and discrimination claims "cannot be substantiated either generally or in relation to his non-selection in the individual men's 400."

He must appear before an independent tribunal next month to answer to breaches of AA's code of conduct and could be suspended.