KINGSTON, Jamaica — German Sandra Kiriasis, an ex-Olympic champion, claims she was forced out of her role as coach of Jamaica’s bobsleigh team currently participating in the Winter Olympics in Korea and that she is legally responsible for the sled.

According to reports from BBC Sport, Kiriasis wants payment for the sled but the Jamaica Bobsleigh Federation declined and is disputing she owns the sled.

“I’ve never known such disappointment in this sport, in my life,” she said.

Kiriasis said she had to quit after refusing to change roles from driving coach to track performance analyst, which would have given her no access to the athletes.

The BBC said the sled situation remains unresolved, with the JBF denying their team will have to pull out of the event.

Kiriasis, who won Olympic gold in 2006, said it was her contacts which led to the team securing the sled.

Kiriasis said: “The athletes have told me they don’t understand why this has happened as they have no problem with me and we have a good relationship.”

Jamaica Bobsleigh said: “Sandra Kiriasis has elected not to continue her position. We are deeply disappointed in her decision to leave the programme.

“We thank her for her invaluable contribution and contributing to the success of Jamaica’s first female bobsled Olympic appearance.

“Ms Kiriasis’ departure will not impact JBSF or its athletes’ performance.”

Jamaica recorded their highest finish in a World Cup race in Winterberg in Germany in December, finishing seventh after switching from a Japanese sled to the one currently under dispute.

— BBC Sport