Restructuring leaves Sir Clive Woodward's future at BOA in doubt

By Duncan Mackay

September 19 - A planned restructuring at the British Olympic Association (BOA) following London 2012 could put the future of several leading figures, including Sir Clive Woodward, in doubt.

Andy Hunt, the BOA's chief executive, presented his proposal, which involves cutting the number of top staff, to the Board today at their first meeting since the conclusion of the Olympics, where Britain won 65 medals, including 29 gold, to finish third overall. 

Also in doubt could be the future of Hugh Chambers, the BOA's commercial director, who has been criticised for the failure to get the dozens of London 2012 sponsors to commit to backing Team GB beyond this year. 

There are currently eight directors at the BOA and under the restructuring programme it is expected a number of the posts will be merged.

The BOA are believed to be facing a financial deficit of around £2 million ($3 million/€2.5 million) after they increased their number of staff and programmes in the build-up to the first Olympics in Britain for 64 years. 

BOA chief executive Andy Hunt (right), with Prime Minister David Cameron during London 2012, presented his restructuring plan to the Board

Sir Clive, who coached England to victory at the 2003 Rugby World Cup, is the director of sport for the BOA and was Deputy Chef de Mission during London 2012.  

But at an annual salary of £300,000 ($487,000/€373,000) many have long believed he is a luxury that the BOA cannot afford.

Hunt's decision to push ahead with the restructuring plan comes despite the fact that Sebastian Coe is set to succeed Colin Moynihan as chairman of the BOA on November 7 when he steps down after six years in charge. 

Hunt is due to travel to Brazil with Sir Clive tomorrow when the BOA begin the search for a pre-Games training camp for Team GB in the build-up to Rio 2016. 

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