Brazilian swimmer Ana Carolina Vieira has been sent home from the Paris 2024 Olympics following a breach of regulations involving her boyfriend, Gabriel Santos.
Vieira was expelled from the Games, while Santos received only a warning.
The incident came to light when social media posts revealed that Vieira and Santos had left the Olympic Village without permission.
According to Gustavo Otsuka, Head of the Brazilian Swimming Team, Vieira’s removal was further exacerbated by her “disrespectful and aggressive” reaction to the disciplinary decision.
A statement from the Brazilian Olympic Committee (COB) on July 27 outlined the situation: “The COB received a report from Gustavo Otsuka regarding acts of indiscipline by swimmers Ana Carolina Vieira and Gabriel Santos.
"In agreement with the Technical Committee, the Team Leader, and the Brazilian Confederation of Aquatic Sports (CBDA), it was decided that Vieira and Santos would be disciplined for leaving the Olympic Village without authorization on Friday.
"Ana Carolina Vieira was found to have contested the technical decision in a disrespectful and aggressive manner. Consequently, Vieira has been removed from the delegation and will return to Brazil immediately, while Santos received a warning.”
Otsuka elaborated on the situation, stating: “We’re not here playing or taking a vacation. We’re here working for Brazil and the 200 million taxpayers who support us. We can’t afford to have anyone act inappropriately.
"Vieira’s actions and her reaction to the decision were completely unacceptable. We discovered the breach through social media posts, which led us to take the matter to the disciplinary committee.”
Vieira had competed in the women’s 4x100 meter freestyle relay earlier on July 27, but her team finished 12th in the heats, missing the final won by Australia.
The disciplinary action taken reflects the strict adherence to rules and conduct expected of Olympic athletes.
Vieira has now spoken out about the decision in an emotional video posted to Instagram.
She said: "I left there and left my materials. I didn't know what to do. My things are there [in the Olympic Village]. I went to the airport in shorts."
She added: "I had to open my suitcase at the airport. I'm in Portugal. I'm going to Recife and then to Sao Paulo. I am helpless.
"I have had no access to anything. I have not been able to speak to anyone. They told me to contact the COB channels. But how am I going to get in touch?
"I have already filed a complaint of harassment, and nothing has been resolved, harassment within the team."
She also revealed she is planning legal action when she returns home, as she continued: "I will speak to my lawyers. I promise to tell everything. I am sad, nervous, but with peace of mind because I know who I am. I know what my character and my nature are.
"I hope to be able to defend Brazilian women's swimming with great pride. I ask for patience and thank you."
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