British Olympic chiefs insist it is too early to predict how many of the 550 Team GB athletes will take part in the parade at the London 2012 opening ceremony.

The ceremony is not due to finish until after midnight and sports such as swimming, cycling and athletics have already said most of their athletes will not be taking part.

It has been suggested that only 40% of Team GB will attend the parade but the British Olympic Association claimed such a figure was premature.

BOA communications director Darryl Seibel said: “It’s too early to say how many athletes will participate. Right now, we are working with our team leaders to determine which sports will march.

“We are confident there will be a strong contingent of Team GB at the opening ceremony, but we won’t know the exact number until much closer to the Games.”

Organisers are trying to restrict the athletes’ parade at the opening ceremony to 90 minutes to reduce the demands on competitors by limiting the number of officials who can take part.

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