LONDON (AP) — The IOC has put on hold its athletes’ election after Japan appealed the expulsion of its candidate.
International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge says “legal issues” prevented the new representatives from joining on Sunday.
Rogge says “there is no doubt that rules were infringed,” prompting the IOC to remove Japanese hammer thrower Koji Murofushi and Taiwanese taekwondo fighter Chu Mu-yen from the contest.
Both placed in the top four among 21 candidates seeking eight-year terms as IOC members.
Japan Olympic officials have formally challenged Murofushi’s exclusion. Taiwan did not appeal.
Almost 7,000 athletes voted, comprising 64 percent of London Games participants.
