COC pulls credentials from De Grasse coach

PARIS – The Canadian Olympic Committee says it has revoked accreditation from the coach of six-time Olympic medal-winning sprinter Andre De Grasse, citing “new information” that has come to light about coach Rana Reider.

The organization says Reider was on probation with the U.S. Center for SafeSport until May of this year, and the decision to accredit him was based on the understanding that he had no other suspensions or sanctions against him.

“On Sunday Aug. 4 we learned of new information about the appropriateness of Mr. Reider remaining accredited by Team Canada at the Paris 2024 Games,” the COC wrote. “In discussion with Athletics Canada, it was agreed that Mr. Reider’s accreditation be revoked.”

The COC did not specify the nature of the new information, but did say that Reider was accredited only as a personal coach with access to athletic warm-up and training areas.

U.K. media outlets have reported the decision is tied to concerns over the “safeguarding” of athletes and allegations of sexual and emotional abuse, and court documents filed in Broward County, Florida, show three women have filed suit against Reider there related to alleged sexual and emotional abuse.

Stevens said Reider currently has no sanctions against him by the U.S. Center for SafeSport, USA Track & Field or Athletics Canada.

“It’s a bad day for the Olympics when a governing body’s fear of bad publicity is prioritized over the athletes,” Stevens said. “Coach Reider has no pending sanctions against him by any governing body.”

The allegations have not been proven in court, and Reider has not been charged with a crime.

Governing body World Athletics said it was not involved in the Olympic accrediation process but confirmed that “conversations” were held at