Sprinter Leon Reid barred from Commonwealth Games after security risk assessment

Northern Ireland sprinter Leon Reid has been denied entry to the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham following a security risk assessment.

Reid was given a suspended sentence in February after being found guilty of allowing his flat to be used for the production of crack cocaine. The 27-year-old won a bronze medal in the men’s 200 metres on the Gold Coast four years ago, and subsequently represented Ireland at the delayed Tokyo Olympics.

He had been named in the Northern Ireland team to compete in the same event in Birmingham.

In a statement, Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland said: “[We are] disappointed to confirm that track athlete Leon Reid has been denied entry to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games following a security risk assessment.

“Leon had been selected by CGNI and had been entered into the 200m event prior to the 29th of June deadline. Notification was subsequently received from the Birmingham 2022 organising committee that he would not be allowed to participate.

“Commonwealth Games NI is currently seeking clarity on any potential appeal mechanism, and the athlete has been offered well-being support as he deals with this news.”

Birmingham 2022 officials were contacted for comment.

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