A report into the sexism at British Cycling will not be published until March as those mentioned are being given a chance to respond to allegations.

It was believed that the report would be made available next week – but now publication of the independent review has been delayed. This is to allow individuals the chance to respond, and avoid the threat of libel action from those mentioned.

The UK Sport review was launched after sprinter Jess Varnish said that Performance Director Shane Sutton told her to “go and have a baby.” Several other female cyclists came forward with their own evidence – as did Paralympic athletes who said they had been called “gimps” and “wobblies”.

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The investigation began 11 months ago, and explores the culture at British Cycling dating back to 2008. A five person committee explored the organisation, led by the British Rowing chairman, Annamarie Phelps.

It is understood that 200 individuals were contacted by the panel, and that up to 60 asked for interviews, to provide evidence – creating a long term review that has spanned over a longer period than expected.

British Cycling is also under investigation by UKAD, after a mysterious package was delivered to Bradley Wiggins and Team Sky at the Critérium du Dauphiné in 2011.  Sir Dave Brailsford has said contained the over the counter medicine fluimicil – but the report is ongoing.

British Cycling CEO Ian Drake has stepped down from his role, earlier than expected, claiming that this was because his handover period was complete. Last year, UK Sport Chair Rod Carr said that the allegations facing the governing body could “fundamentally undermine” all the recent success.