IOC reprimands Irish fighters for gambling in Rio

Irish Olympians Michael Conlan and Steven Donnelly gambled at Rio 2016 to pass the time because they were bored — and both fighters were issued “severe reprimands” yesterday for breaking Olympic rules.

The Belfast and Ballymena pair were yesterday sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee for placing accumulator bets on boxing matches at last month’s Games. The Irish Athletic Boxing Association said it was “very disappointed” at the boxers but said it does not plan any further action.

“The IABA is very disappointed to learn two members of the Irish boxing team have engaged in such activity during the Rio Olympic Games. We fully endorse and support today’s ruling by the International Olympic Committee. It is likely no further action will be taken by the IABA as the matter has already been dealt with by the IOC.”