Rana Reider, coach of Andre De Grasse, facing investigation over sexual misconduct allegations

The coach of Canadian sprinting star Andre De Grasse is facing investigation over sexual misconduct allegations.

Based in Florida, Rana Reider has coached the Olympic 200-metre gold medallist for the past couple of seasons, including through the 2019 world championships in Doha, where De Grasse won silver and bronze.

Reider's lawyer, Ryan Stevens, confirmed SafeSport has assigned an investigator "to perform interviews and other work."

"We have received no evidence whatsoever about the claims," Stevens said in a statement to The Canadian Press. "The SafeSport Code defines 'sexual misconduct' broadly.'"

Stevens said his client has not received a notice of allegations, meaning "their investigative efforts are incomplete or have just begun.… Rana does not deserve to have his name and reputation dragged through the mud without any evidence or due process."

The allegations against Reider have not been tested in court.

In a statement, Athletics Canada said it was made aware of the reports against the 51-year-old track coach on Wednesday through an article in the Guardian newspaper.

"We immediately referred the matter to our independent commissioner's office to investigate," it said.

Later on Thursday, Athletics Canada said its commissioner's office confirmed with the U.S. Center for SafeSport, which oversees investigations into abuse in sport, that an investigation is ongoing.

CBC Sports has also reached out to the centre but did not immediately receive a response.

In a statement to the Globe and Mail, the centre said it "does not comment on matters to protect the integrity of the investigative process."

Though Reider isn't a member of the organization or a Canadian citizen, he does coach Canadian athletes.

"As a result of this investigation, Athletics Canada is suspending any payments to Mr. Reider for his work with Canadian athletes pending the outcome of said investigation," said Athletics Canada in a statement.

In a statement regarding Reider, British Athletics also said "that an investigation in the U.S. is imminent."

The sports governing body said it has "informed U.K. athletes currently being coached by him to cease all association until the conclusion of this process."

Coach credited with helping De Grasse

De Grasse's management agency, Envision Sports & Entertainment, told CBC Sports that it has no comment on the reports.

The athletics coach has been credited with helping De Grasse make needed changes that have led to continued success for the athlete on the track.

Reider has also coached reigning women's world 100-metre hurdles champion Nia Ali, who is the partner of De Grasse. His Tumbleweed Track Club in Jacksonville, Fla., is also the training base for Adam Gemili, of Britain, and Trayvon Bromell, of the U.S.

Reider's previous coaching experience includes Dutch athlete Dafne Schippers and American Christian Taylor.