A BBSA coach has reportedly been accused of racism ©Getty Images

The British Bobsleigh and Skeleton Association (BBSA) have stressed they take athlete welfare very seriously after a report claimed a senior coach had been accused of racism.

According to the BBC, the BBSA’s chief executive Richard Parker was informed of concerns of athletes earlier this year.

It was alleged that one athlete claimed they had experience racism “several times” from a coach, with claims they had referred to black people as “lazy”.

The BBC have stated that another athlete alleged a racial bias in favour of “caucasian males” and a stigma against black drivers on the performance programme.

There have also reportedly been complains regarding sexist comments, with claims there was a "dictatorship within the management".

An internal review by the BBSA was conducted following the claims, with the organisation stating that no formal complaints were forthcoming from athletes.

“The British Bobsleigh & Skeleton Association is aware of today’s BBC news story and stresses that it takes athlete welfare very seriously,” a BBSA statement read.

“The BBSA condemns racism, sexism and any other form of discrimination in the strongest possible sense.

“Such attitudes have no place in our sport.

“Having received a set of anonymous athlete comments regarding the performance environment following the conclusion of the 2016/17 sliding season, the BBSA immediately instigated an internal review.

“Athletes were asked to formalise any complaints as part of the process to start an official investigation and allow any persons involved a right to respond but no such complaints were made.

“The BBSA acted swiftly to address the situation and steps have been taken to ensure all athletes and staff are clear on the process in which to address any concerns.

The racism claims are the latest damaging allegations to hit British sport ©Getty Images
The racism claims are the latest damaging allegations to hit British sport ©Getty Images

“A plan of action has also been agreed with athletes and staff to continue collaborating on ways of working together to ensure we deliver a positive and open environment for all.

“We are proud of the diversity in our team and the success it brings.”

The allegations are the latest concerns to hit British sport regarding welfare, with a review culture of British Cycling’s world class performance programme set to be published tomorrow.

Led by Annamarie Phelps, the chair of British Rowing and vice-chair of the British Olympic Association, the review of British Cycling was launched in April 2016 to look at any lessons the National Federation could learn.

The process was initiated after former technical director Shane Sutton resigned from his role amid accusations of discrimination against sprinter Jess Varnish.

Publication of the full report has experienced delays, with those criticised given time to respond to any claims made, while the UK General Election saw initial date of February be pushed back.

British Canoeing have also been the subject of complaints in recent times for the duty of care they have provided.