INCHEON, South Korea: India has been slapped with a $10,000 fine for its late withdrawal of athletes from the Asian Games.
Indian Olympic Association joint secretary Rakesh Gupta says Sunday the fine was announced by the Olympic Council of Asia but the national body has protested since “it could not oppose a government decision” to reduce the contingent.
The IOA had recommended 662 athletes and 280 officials in a total of 942, but the government cut the list to 516 athletes and 163 support staff for an overall 679, saying only those with a realistic chance of winning medals should participate.
India had sent a contingent of 933 members, including 609 athletes, for the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou where it won 65 medals, including 14 gold. -AP