Indications of division between older and newer OCI board members over Hickey arrest

The crisis-hit Olympic Council of Ireland has failed to fully back Pat Hickey amid growing speculation its older and newer board members are divided over the high-profile official.

The sporting organisation would not confirm full confidence in Mr Hickey last night, in the wake of a five-hour executive committee meeting over the affair.

Responding to the Irish Examiner — as a spokesperson for John Delaney refused to comment on a linked controversy surrounding the FAI chief executive or say he would assist Brazilian police if asked — the OCI would only say Mr Hickey has been a significant figure. He will appear in court today or tomorrow and will either be charged or released on bail