Charles van Commenee to leave post as UK Athletics head coach

UK Athletics head coach Charles van Commenee will step down from his role when his contract expires in December.

Van Commenee said before the Games that he would not continue if the athletics team did not reach their target of eight medals on the track and in the field at the Olympics.

The team achieved six, including four golds, but the Dutchman has stuck to his original decision and will not renew his contract.

"If I hold athletes and coaches accountable every day, how could I work over the next four years if I am not held accountable myself?" The Telegraph quotes Van Commenee as saying. "It's a no-brainer. I never understand when people who have failed stay in jobs, as in politics and football.

"When a target is not hit it should have consequences. It's one of the pillars under our policy. That's what I implement to athletes and coaches every day. That's what drives people to do better."

Van Commenee has been UKA head coach since 2008.