Pentathlon official sent packing from Paris hours before semifinals, special investigation by disciplinary panel begins
The treasurer of the governing body of modern pentathlon is facing a disciplinary investigation for "alleged credentials irregularities" and has left Paris 2024.
The UIPM, which governs modern pentathlon, said on Friday that John Helmick would be investigated by a disciplinary panel. It didn't specify the nature of the alleged irregularities or when a decision could be expected.
The announcement came as men's modern pentathlon semifinals began on the grounds of the historic Palace of Versailles near Paris.
LIVE UPDATES: Follow all the action from day 14
READ MORE: 'What's going on?': Aussie hero's shock at epic save
READ MORE: Legend hits Opals with grim reality
"UIPM confirms that UIPM Treasurer, John Helmick, has handed in his accreditation for Paris 2024 and left the Olympic Games pending an investigation by a specially-convened UIPM disciplinary panel into alleged credentials irregularities," the organisation said in an emailed statement.
An official has been sent home from Paris pending an investigation. It was confirmed as the men's modern pentathlon semi-finals, which includes fencing as one of the events, began. AP
"It is important for the sake of all involved that this process is conducted fairly without speculation and rumours," the statement continued.
"UIPM is totally committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity at all levels of our sport. There will be no further comment until the investigation has been conducted."
Watch every moment, every medal of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now. Plus, every event streaming ad free, live and on demand with 4K on Stan Sport.
Helmick, who is from the United States, is a former UIPM vice president who has been with the organisation since 1993 and "provides invaluable experience in UIPM relationships with sponsors and event hospitality," according to a profile on the UIPM website.
Helmick's father, Robert Helmick, was president of what was then the United States Olympic Committee in the 1980s and '90s, and served as president of swimming's governing body, FINA, which is now World Aquatics, and as a board member of the International Olympic Committee.
