US swimmers get passports and leave Brazil

Two US swimmers left Brazil after testifying about the robbery claims made by their team-mate Ryan Lochte that have caused outrage in Rio.

Brazilians chanted “liar” as Gunnar Bentz and Jack Conger left the police building after a judge lifted an order seizing their passports, allowing them to check in at the airport. “They did not lie in their statements. “They never lied to journalists. “They only stayed quiet. “They did not know what was going on,” lawyer Sergio Riera said.

The last swimmer in Rio, Jimmy Feigen, provided an updated statement to police, US Olympic officials said, and hoped to get his passport back shortly to return home.

Brazilian police said Lochte and his three team-mates were not robbed after a night of partying, and the intoxicated athletes instead vandalised a petrol station toilet and were questioned by armed guards before they paid for the damage and left.

The robbery claim has become the biggest spectacle outside of the Olympic venues in Rio, casting a shadow over American athletes amid an otherwise remarkable run at the Summer Games.

“No robbery was committed against these athletes,” Civil Police Chief Fernando Veloso said.

Last night Lochte broke his silence, apologised on Twitter, writing: “I should have been much more responsible in how I handled myself and for that I am sorry.”

He added: “I am very proud to represent my country in Olympic competition and this was a situation that could and should have been avoided.

“I accept responsibility for my role in this happening and have learned some valuable lessons.”

Picture: Getty Images. Gunnar Bentz, left, and Jack Conger leave the police station after getting their passports back.

Ryan Lochte, who made the initial false claim.