Monday 4 May 2026, Balmain, Couva
The Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (SporTT) notes recent media reports and public commentary regarding the non-participation of members of the national junior cycling team at the Junior Pan American Championships in Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico, and provides the following clarification.
Background and Notice to National Governing Bodies
SporTT advises that, pursuant to a Board directive, all National Governing Bodies (NGBs) under its purview were formally notified by the Sport Development Unit (SDU) in February 2026 that funding approvals were placed on hold indefinitely, pending administrative and financial review processes. This position was communicated to the Trinidad and Tobago Cycling Federation (TTCF) more than three months ago, at a 29 January 2026 virtual meeting.
The decision to place subventions on hold was not taken lightly and was in part necessary due to persistent compliance challenges across several NGBs, especially in light of ongoing funding constraints.
Outstanding Compliance Obligations
In relation to the TTCF, SporTT confirms that there are currently eight (8) outstanding expense reports spanning the current and previous financial years. Five (5) of these reports are presently under review by the SDU, pending additional supporting documentation from the TTCF to complete the reconciliation process. The remaining three (3) reports have not yet been submitted by the TTCF.
In line with governance and accountability best practices, these outstanding matters must be resolved before further funding requests can be considered. SporTT communicated these requirements to the TTCF through established channels well in advance of the Championships, allowing sufficient time for alternative arrangements to be explored.
Governance Framework
As a state enterprise, SporTT aims to ensure that all funding disbursements are managed in accordance with established governance, accountability, and financial compliance procedures. SporTT continues to demonstrate its commitment to sport development and performance; however, it also has a responsibility to maintain best practice in accountability and governance in the management of public funds. These measures help safeguard the integrity and sustainability of public investment in sport and must be applied consistently across all NGBs.
Acknowledgement
SporTT acknowledges the disappointment experienced by the athletes, their families, and the wider cycling community regarding the circumstances surrounding the team’s participation, and will continue to work with NGBs in the best interest of national sport. The organisation remains committed to collaborations that support athlete development within a framework of sound governance, transparency, and accountability.
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