Aaron Cook, the world’s top-ranked 80kg taekwondo fighter, has switched nationalities from Great Britain to Moldova.
“Despite the fact that there is no legitimate case for nationality change here, the [British Olympic Association] cannot compel any athlete to represent the United Kingdom against his or her will,” British Olympic Association CEO Bill Sweeney said in a press release. “As such, and as Aaron has now reiterated that he wishes to represent Moldova, rather than the country of his birth, at future taekwondo competitions, the BOA will not stand in his way.
“We are saddened by Aaron’s decision to make himself unavailable for selection for Team GB and to instead compete for Moldova, but we wish him all the best for the future.