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An investigation into claims Shane Sutton made discriminatory comments to riders has been announced by the sport’s governing body.British Cycling has suspended its technical director Shane Sutton amid allegations he made discriminatory comments to cyclists.
The sport’s governing body launched an internal investigation after cyclist Jess Varnish claimed in a newspaper she was told to “go and have a baby” when her contract was not renewed.
In addition,Mr Sutton used derogatory names to refer to Paralympic cyclists though he denies the allegations.
UK Sport, the umbrella organisation for Olympic and Paralympic sports, had previously opened discussions with British Cycling to press for an investigation.
Chief executive Liz Nicholl said: “UK Sport expects all athletes and support personnel to adhere to the highest levels of professionalism and conduct and have a zero tolerance approach to sexist behaviour or language.
“As a recipient of world-class programme funding from UK Sport, British Cycling has a responsibility to assure us that such matters are dealt with appropriately, swiftly, fairly and transparently.”