Tyler Smith’s Olympic debut has been put back by 24 hours after the men’s triathlon was called off because of unsafe conditions in the River Seine.

Unusually high rain on the weekend led to unacceptable levels of E. coli contamination in the river, forcing organisers into a contingency plan.

The race will now be held on Wednesday at 5.45am Bermuda time after the conclusion of the women’s race, featuring reigning champion Dame Flora Duffy.

The women’s race remains scheduled for a 3am start Bermuda time.

The organisers said in a statement: “Considering the latest weather information, it has been decided to schedule the men’s triathlon event on 31 July at 10h45. The women’s triathlon is due to take place the same day at 8am. Both triathlons are subject to the forthcoming water tests complying with the established World Triathlon thresholds for swimming. A contingency day remains in place for 2 August.

“Paris 2024 and World Triathlon reiterate that their priority is the health of the athletes. The tests carried out in the Seine today revealed water quality levels that did not provide sufficient guarantees to allow the event to be held.

“Unfortunately, meteorological events beyond our control, such as the rain which fell over Paris on 26 and 27 July, can alter water quality and compel us to reschedule the event for health reasons. Despite the improvement of water quality levels over the last hours, the readings at some points of the swim course are still above the acceptable limits.”

The medal ceremonies for both races are now scheduled to be held after the men’s race.