World Athletics has revealed that former employees embezzled more than €1.5 million (about $1.7 million) from the organization in what it calls a “systematic theft.” The global athletics body has already reported the matter to legal authorities and pledged to use every legal avenue to recover the stolen funds
Highlights
- Over €1.5 million allegedly stolen by former World Athletics employees.
- The organization described it as a case of “systematic theft.”
- A consultant and an employee have been fired; one had already left.
- President Sebastian Coe vows to pursue the culprits through legal action.
- The case has been submitted to judicial and legal authorities.
Main Story
The Theft Uncovered
World Athletics, the international governing body for track and field, said the theft was uncovered after an internal review revealed suspicious financial activities. The organization described it as a case of “systematic theft” involving both current and former staff members.
Swift Action by the Organization
Following the discovery, World Athletics terminated the contracts of a consultant and an employee directly linked to the embezzlement. A third person, who was also implicated, had already left the organization before the scheme was uncovered.
The body has provided full documentation to law enforcement and judicial authorities to facilitate a criminal investigation and possible prosecution.
Sebastian Coe Speaks Out
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe condemned the theft and promised accountability. He emphasized that the organization would not quietly settle such cases but instead ensure justice is served.
“Too many organizations brush incidents like this under the carpet,” Coe said. “We are not that type of organization. We have built a strong reputation for transparency and doing what is right, even when it’s uncomfortable.”
Rebuilding Trust
The athletics body has reiterated its commitment to transparency and financial accountability, assuring partners and athletes that it will take all measures necessary to recover the stolen funds and prevent similar incidents in the future.
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