Ferguson withdraws from Games squad

Weightlifting squad manager Jim Ferguson has withdrawn from Scotland’s Commonwealth Games team because of an ongoing investigation into allegations he helped competitors buy performance-enhancing drugs.

Commonwealth Games Council for Scotland (CGCS) officials met with Ferguson in Edinburgh yesterday to discuss a report in the Sunday Mail, which also alleged the team’s weightlifting coach John McNiven – Ferguson’s assistant – had secretly failed a drugs test.

The CGCS decided there was “no case to answer” where McNiven was concerned, but because of the publicity surrounding the article he has decided to withdraw from the Scotland team along with Ferguson.

A statement issued by the Scotland team’s press office read: “CGCS take matters of this nature very seriously and have formally requested that Sunday Mail make the tapes available to them in order that they can make a full and thorough investigation into the allegations.

“We recognise however that this may take some time. In view of the fact that the Games start on July 26 the needs of the weightlifting team must take priority.

“Jim Ferguson has therefore withdrawn in order that we may put alternative support in place and so he may continue to pursue this matter vigorously.

“The Sunday Mail also referred to John McNiven ‘secretly failing a drugs test’.

“The Commonwealth Games Council for Scotland (CGCS) are able to confirm that there was no secrecy surrounding this issue and that he had advised them fully of the situation relating to an adverse finding for caffeine at the time he applied for the position as team coach.

“CGCS also met with John to review the situation. Whilst it was concluded as per the original judgement that there was not a case to answer, in view of the ongoing media focus on this issue John has decided to withdraw in the best interests of the Scottish team.

“John has made a major contribution to Scottish weightlifting and Scottish Commonwealth Games as a competitor coach and official over many years and we fully respect the decision he has made.

“The Commonwealth Games Council for Scotland would like to acknowledge the way both Jim and John have conducted themselves at what has been a difficult time for all involved and are grateful that they have put the needs of the Scottish team first.

“CGCS now consider that this matter is closed and no further statements will be issued to allow the athletes to prepare for the Games.”