Richard Sunee, a gold medalist at the 1998 Commonwealth Games, has been removed as the national boxing coach of Mauritius. Sunee, who was appointed to the position in April 2025, had been working with the Mauritian boxing federation (FMB) for over a year. His removal comes after FMB president Pascal Telvar cited several shortcomings in Sunee's performance, including missed school visits and unsubmitted reports.
Sunee disputes the allegations made by Telvar and has chosen not to engage in a public feud. Instead, he has opted to focus on his role as Advisor Coach at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, where he will continue to contribute to the development of boxing in Mauritius. Sunee expressed his disappointment with the situation but has decided to leave the matter in God's hands, stating that the truth will be revealed in time.
The decision to remove Sunee was made by the FMB, which had offered him a new role as a member of the national technical staff. However, Sunee claims he did not respond to the proposal. Telvar had also mentioned that Sunee's contract was not renewed due to his alleged failures. Sunee's removal has sparked controversy in the Mauritian boxing community, with many questioning the reasons behind the decision.
Despite the controversy, Sunee remains committed to the sport and will continue to work with the Ministry of Youth and Sports. He was the first Mauritian to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games, achieving this feat in 1998. Sunee's experience and expertise will still be utilized in the development of boxing in Mauritius, albeit in a different capacity.
The FMB has not commented further on the matter, and it is unclear what the future holds for Sunee and the Mauritian boxing team. The team's performance at the recent Commonwealth Games in Scotland was promising, with Merven Clair winning a bronze medal in the under-70 kg category. Sunee had played a key role in preparing the team for the games.
Sunee's removal as national coach has raised questions about the governance of the FMB and the management of the national boxing team. The controversy has sparked debate among boxing enthusiasts and officials, with some calling for greater transparency and accountability within the federation.
The situation is being closely watched by the sports community in Mauritius, with many hoping that the controversy will be resolved amicably. Sunee's commitment to the sport and his experience make him a valuable asset to the Mauritian boxing community, and it is likely that he will continue to play an important role in the development of the sport in the country.
Key points
- Richard Sunee removed as national boxing coach of Mauritius amid controversy
- Sunee disputes allegations made by FMB president Pascal Telvar
- Sunee to continue working with Ministry of Youth and Sports as Advisor Coach
