Athletics

Australia scoff at racism claim

2012-12-20 10:04
John Steffensen (AFP)

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.

Read more on:    john steffensen  |  athletics
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