Australian Team Chef de Mission Anna Meares has confirmed that Michael Palfery will continue to be part of the Dolphins coaching team following a recommendation by head coach Rohan Taylor.

“I support Rohan Taylor and his team and the decision they have taken in the interests of the swimming team. It is a decision based on high-performance and wellbeing,” Ms Meares said.

The Dolphins senior management team spoke with athletes, including those coached by Palfery, the athlete leadership group and coaches in response to Palfery’s recent comments regarding Korean athlete Kim Woo-min.

Also part of the conversation were Dolphins Sam Short and Elijah Winnington, whom Woo-min competes against.

Taylor said athlete welfare across the entire 41-member pool team was at the forefront of the decision for Palfery to stay on in Paris.

“We took the time to consider the two options – for Mick Palfery to stay … and for Michael Palfery to be sent home.

“After extended conversations, with athletes, the athlete leadership group, and coaching staff we have made the decision for Michael to stay. It is not one we have taken lightly and I stress this is an ongoing discussion for when we return home,” Taylor said.