Runner John Steffensen's racism claims dismissed, to be investigated for bringing athletics into disrepute

ATHLETICS Australia has rejected claims of racial vilification made by controversial 400m runner John Steffensen prior to the 2012 Olympics.

ATHLETICS Australia (AA) has rejected claims of racial vilification and discrimination made by controversial 400m runner John Steffensen prior to the 2012 Olympics, instead saying he will be investigated for potentially bringing the sport into disrepute.

Steffensen, of South African descent, claimed that racism was at the centre of him not earning an individual 400m starting berth at the London Games.

"I've put up with being racially vilified by this federation, being discriminated against on many teams. You know it would help if I was a different colour,'' Steffensen said at the time.

Steffensen, the 2006 Commonwealth Games champion in the event, also claimed he was the subject of racial slurs by team officials during the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

Much of the 30-year-old's anger was directed towards Athletics Australia boss Dallas O'Brien, Steffensen accusing him of lying about the reasons why Steve Solomon was selected to run ahead of him in London.

But after months of investigations, AA responded in a statement on Thursday saying none of Steffensen's claims could be substantiated.

"The result of the investigation is that the allegations of racial vilification or discrimination made by Steffensen cannot be substantiated either generally or in relation to his non-selection in the individual men's 400m,'' the statement read.

"Furthermore, the investigation has concluded that there was no basis for stating that O'Brien had lied or was a liar.''

AA's statement went on to say that Steffensen himself would now be the target of an investigation with the peak body's board to re-convene in the new year to discuss the matter.

"The Board of Athletics Australia has determined that it will refer to an independent tribunal for determination a number of allegations against Steffensen.

"These include that his statements and conduct have been insulting or improper or likely to bring the sport of athletics into disrepute and that he has breached the Athletics Australia Team Member Code of Conduct,'' the statement said.

AA had appointed lawyer Paul Horvath to conduct the investigation into Steffensen's allegations.

According to AA, Steffensen provided evidence as well as a number of other athletes and officials.