Olympics-Modern Pentathlon-Official leaves Games pending UIPM investigation

VERSAILLES, France (Reuters) - The treasurer of Modern Pentathlon's governing body the UIPM has left the Paris Olympics pending a disciplinary investigation into alleged credentials irregularities, the body said on Friday.

UIPM said in a statement that John Helmick, an American, had handed in his accreditation for Paris 2024 and left the Games while a specially-convened UIPM disciplinary panel investigates the matter.

"It is important for the sake of all involved that this process is conducted fairly without speculation and rumour," it added.

"UIPM is totally committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity at all levels of our sport."

The UIPM, or Union Internationale de Pentathlon Moderne, gave no further details and said there would be no further comment until the investigation had been completed.

Helmick is a former UIPM vice-president who competed as an athlete from 1976-1982.

"Mr. Helmick provides invaluable experience in UIPM relationships with sponsors and event hospitality," the UIPM website states.

Modern Pentathlon's men's and women's finals are being held on Saturday and Sunday in the grounds of the Palace of Versailles.

(Reporting by Alan Baldwin, Editing by Hugh Lawson)