Olympics commentator releases statement after 'shameful' on-air remarks saw him axed

Olympics commentator Bob Ballard has issued an apology for remarks that led to his dismissal from Eurosport's coverage of the games.

Ballard stirred controversy during his commentary on the women's 4x100 relay on Saturday, a race won by the Australian team comprising Mollie O'Callaghan, Shayna Jack, Emma McKeon and Meg Harris. As the victorious women exited the pool, Ballard made a comment which was immediately picked up on.

He said: "Well, the women (are) just finishing up. You know what women are like... hanging around, doing their make-up." The clip caused consternation on social media, with some branding his comments 'shameful', leading to Eurosport issuing a statement.

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"During a segment of Eurosport's coverage last night, commentator Bob Ballard made an inappropriate comment," it read. "To that end, he has been removed from our commentary roster with immediate effect."

Ballard, a former BBC commentator, had been sharing the mic with Lizzie Simmonds. His co-commentator was heard labelling his words as 'outrageous'.

Ballard has now released a statement of his own, stating he was a 'massive advocate of women's sport'. He said: "The comments I made during the Australian freestyle relay victory ceremony on Saturday have caused some offence.

"It was never my intention to upset or belittle anyone and, if I did, I apologise. I am a massive advocate of women's sport.

"I shall miss the Eurosport team dearly, and wish them all the best for the rest of the Olympics. No further comment will be issued.