World Sailing, the international governing body for the sport, has declared itself “satisfied” with peparations for the sailing regattas at the the Rio 2016 Olympic Games following a four-day visit to the host city.

There have been concerns over the quality of water in the city centre bay, but a top-level World Sailing delegation heard about efforts to improve the situation, such the construction of pipe belt to prevent sewage entering the water near the Marina da Gloria venue, and the use of ecobarriers to stop floating debris from entering the bay from rivers.

A World Sailing statement said: “The health and safety of sailors competing at Rio 2016 is paramount and World Sailing remain focused on delivering an excellent Olympic Sailing Competition on a safe and fair field of play.”

Among the delegation who were in Rio between 7 and 10 March was World Sailing medical commission representative Dr Nebojša Nikolic, who said: “I am satisfied with the planning work that is being done ahead of the Games to ensure that the welfare of sailors remains the top priority and that appropriate water testing and protocols are in place to inform decision making at the Games.

“We will continue to monitor water testing data closely and to educate sailors and officials on what they can do themselves to reduce health risks ahead of the Games.”

Also present in the World Sailing delegation were CEO Andy Hunt, technical delegates Alastair Fox and Scott Perry, and events committee chairman Pablo Masseroni. They met with the Rio 2016 organising committee, the city and state governments, the state environment institute (INEA) and the state water and sewage company (CEDAE).

World Sailing also reported that the redevelopment of Marina da Gloria is “entering the final stages of completion and is on-track to be delivered in early April”.

The governing body stressed that having seven racing areas and three reserve days for each of the 10 sailing events provides great flexibility. The statement added: “Contingency plans for all scenarios from water quality to wind conditions are in place and World Sailing remains confident in delivering a memorable and successful Olympic Sailing Competition.”

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