Report in Germany prompts rower to leave Olympics

Updated August 3, 2012

BERLIN (AP) German Olympic officials said Friday that a rower had left the London Games after a broadcaster reported that her boyfriend is a supporter of an extreme right-wing party in Germany.

Nadja Drygalla, a member of the women's eight crew, planned to leave the Olympic village to avoid any "burden for the Olympic team," said Michael Vesper, general director of the national Olympic association.

Vesper said he and German rowing officials met with Drygalla, who "stressed credibly" she is "committed to the values of the Olympic charter."

International Olympic Committee spokesman Mark Adams said he did not think it was an issue for the IOC "because she hasn't said or done anything related to the games."

Drygalla was done competing at the games after the women's eight team failed to make Thursday's final.

Drygalla is a former police trainee. The state interior ministry in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania said it learned last year that her acquaintances included people who belong to the far-right scene.

A ministry statement said that "intensive talks" were held with Drygalla and she resigned from the force last September.