The World Rowing Federation (FISA) on Tuesday played down concerns about pollution at Rio's Rodrigo de Freitas lake, describing the venue's water quality as "very acceptable".

A survey conducted by FISA's sports medicine commission showed the incidence of illness among athletes at the recent world junior championships was lower than average.

"Forty national federations reported no illness among their team members during or after the event; 13 reported one to five cases of illness; and one team reported more than five cases of illness," FISA said in a statement.

The Rodrigo de Freitas lake will host canoe sprint and rowing events at next year's Olympics. Just like Rio's Guanabara bay sailing venue, the lake has been criticized for the alleged poor quality of its water.

Earlier this year Rio's city government admitted it would not be able to deliver an earlier promise to reduce pollution flowing into the bay by 80%.

Organizers and city officials have denied the water venues pose a health risk to athletes and say they will be suitable to host Olympic competition next year. Endi

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