A BRITISH Olympic cyclist has been arrested on suspicion of rape and indecent assault.
The ex-athlete reportedly held a prominent position in professional cycling after retiring from competition.
This has apparently involved him working with some of the biggest names in the sport.
Police confirmed that the suspect had been bailed while an investigation into the allegations was ongoing.
The rider's name cannot be revealed for legal reasons.
A spokesperson for British Cycling said: "Abuse of any kind has no place in sport.
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"We urge anybody with concerns about non-recent or current abuse to report them either directly to the British Cycling safeguarding team by emailing [email protected], or through the NSPCC’s free and independent helpline by calling 0800 614 458."
It comes after a boom period for British Cycling, that saw stars like Victoria Pendleton and Sir Chris Hoy win multiple Olympic medals, seems to have begun to falter.
The governing body lost its title sponsor HSBC in December 2021 after the bank cancelled its deal four years earlier than planned.
Last month, the organisation was slammed by eco-campaigners for signing a deal with energy giant Shell until 2030.
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The aftermath of that row saw Chief Executive Brian Facer step down.
Before his resignation, he said the partnership with Shell would help to "widen access to the sport, support our elite riders and help our organisation and sport take important steps towards net zero".
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