Smith, an Olympic silver medallist on the pommel horse at Rio 2016, was recorded with fellow gymnast Luke Carson.

Carson, forced to retire after the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow following a long battle against injury, is shown taking a large rug off the wall before shouting "Allahu Akbar" and recreating a praying pose. 

The Islamic phrase means "God is the greatest" in Arabic.

Smith posted an apology on his social media channels this morning explaining his regret at the situation.

"I am deeply sorry for the recent video you may have seen," he said.

"I am not defending myself, what I did was wrong.

"I want to say sorry for the deep offence I have caused and to my family who have also been affected by my thoughtless actions.

"I have learnt a valuable life lesson and I wholeheartedly apologise."

British Gymnastics said it would be investigating the incident, which allegedly took place at the wedding reception of gymnast Dan Keatings at the Kettering Park Hotel in Northamptonshire.

"British Gymnastics does not condone the mocking of any faith or religion and is appalled by such behaviours," read the governing body's statement.

"Gymnastics is an inclusive sport and we are proud of members who portray the inclusive values of British Gymnastics.

"Members who break our code of conduct can face suspension or expulsion from our organisation.

"We will be investigating the behaviours reported."

The 27-year-old Smith has three other Olympic medals in his collection, including pommel horse silver and team bronze from London 2012.

He also won pommel horse bronze at Beijing 2008.

After London 2012 Smith was the winner of the popular BBC entertainment show Strictly Come Dancing.

In April Smith issued an apology after criticising judges at the British Championships in Liverpool, after missing out to Max Whitlock in the pommel horse.

Whitlock edged Smith again to win the pommel horse gold medal at Rio 2016 and also won the men's floor title.