Olympic swimmers wear masks as concerns over Covid rise across camps

Australia’s Lani Pallister withdrew from the women’s 1500m freestyle after a positive test. Her coach, Dean Boxall, wears a mask as a precaution. Photograph: Dean Lewins/AAP

Further evidence of concern about the impact of Covid on swimming elements of the Olympics appeared on Tuesday night, when the coaching teams of several nations – including Team GB – donned masks in the stand at La Défense Arena. There is no mandatory requirement to withdraw from the Games in cases of Covid, leaving nations to implement their own policies with athletes and staff.

Adam Peaty confirmed he had tested positive after finishing in the silver‑medal position in the 100m breaststroke on Sunday evening. Peaty hopes to recover to take on relay roles at the weekend. Matters quickly extended beyond Team GB.