Chinese gold medallists face investigation over Mao badges
The International Olympic Committee says it is investigating two Chinese cyclists who wore badges featuring an image of the country's former leader Mao Zedong during a medal ceremony.
A spokesman said the IOC had contacted the Chinese Olympic Committee for a report on the incident.
The pair - Bao Shanju and Zhong Tianshi - won the women's sprint on Monday.
Such gestures are a potential breach of Olympic rules banning political statements.
Article 50 of the Olympic Charter says "no kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas".
Rules were eased last month to allow athletes to "express their views" before and after competing, paving the way for athletes to take the knee to highlight racism without facing sanction.
But bans remain on gestures or statements during competition or at medal ceremonies.
Mao Zedong ruled China with an iron fist from 1949 until his death in 1976. He was responsible for one of the biggest humanitarian disasters in history when his Great Leap Forward campaign, aimed at modernising China's agriculture and industry, led to widespread famine and the deaths of up to 45 million people.
Asked about the Chinese cyclists, IOC spokesperson Mark Adams said the committee was "looking into the matter".
The IOC is also investigating US shot-putter Raven Saunders, who crossed her arms into an X shape when collecting a silver medal.
Saunders, who is black and gay, said her gesture was "the intersection of where all people who are oppressed meet".
The IOC has asked the US team for more details. Saunders has found widespread support for her action, including from the US Olympic organisers, something the IOC said it would take into account.
