Rogge says Isinbayeva's role as Olympic ambassador could be in doubt after comments on gays

Published January 13, 2015

IOC President Jacques Rogge says the Olympic body will consider whether Russian pole vault star Yelena Isinbayeva should be dropped as an Olympic ambassador following her comments about homosexuals.

Rogge says "this is something we will consider in due time."

Isinbayeva is an ambassador for the Youth Olympics. She is also the "mayor" of one of two Olympic villages for February's Winter Games in Sochi, an honorary but symbolic and visible role.

Isinbayeva spoke in defense of Russia's law against gay "propaganda" after winning the pole vault at last month's world championships in Moscow.

She condemned homosexuality and criticized two Swedish athletes who painted their fingernails in rainbow colors in support of gay rights. The next day, Isinbayeva said her comments in English may have been misunderstood.

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