Brammeier unsuccessful in London 2012 appeal

MATT Brammeier has been forced to look ahead to the 2016 Olympics in Rio with his appeal to represent Ireland at this year's Games rejected. 

Brammeier was not named in the Irish road team for London 2012 despite being a multiple national and reigning champion.

The 27-year-old issued a statement on Twitter today regarding his unsuccessful bid and it seems will not make a last-ditch effort and take his appeal further to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Irish national team selection is based on results and selector's assessments. Daniel Martin (Garmin Sharp), Nicolas Roche (Ag2r La Mondiale) and David McCann (RTS Racing) will represent the nation in London.

"So the Olympic dream is over for another four (sic) years. I am bitterly disappointed with the decision by the OCI (Olympic Council of Ireland) not to uphold my appeal against non-selection," Brammeier published on his Twitter site.

"I have always represented Ireland with pride. The Olympic Games is a momentous occasion and I am sure that anyone who has ever competed in any sport at any level will fully understand my decision to pursue this process through to the end.

"It's a huge shame that politics sometimes gets in the way of sport but now the process is concluded and it is now, time to move on and refocus on the remainder of my season.

"To this end I would like to thank my manager Andrew McQuaid and everyone involved in my appeal, also I would urge everyone associated with cycling in Ireland to end this debate and join me in getting fully behind the team who have been selected.

"I remain as ever, available for selection to ride for my country and look forward to the privilege of wearing the green jersey of Ireland in major championships in the future.

"See you in Rio."

The Olympic Games men's road race falls on July 28, which doubles as the first day of competition. Martin and Roche are currently competing at the Tour de France.

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