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IOC to fly Olympic flag at half-mast following death of French Olympians

The International Olympic Committee releases a statement expressing its 'shock' following the death of French Olympians Camille Muffat and Alexis Vastine.

The International Olympic Committee has released a statement expressing its sadness after two French Olympians died while filming a reality TV survival show.

Swimmer Camille Muffat, 25, and boxer Alexis Vastine, 28, were among 10 people who died when two helicopters collided during the shooting of Dropped in Argentina.

Yachtswoman Florence Arthaud, 57, and the two Argentine pilots also perished in the accident, which is yet to be explained.

A statement from the IOC read: "We are shocked by this sad news. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of these great athletes who have left us.

"With them, the world of sport and the Olympic family have lost three of their key members. They were all not only champions in their sport but also contributed greatly as role models.

NOT FOR INDEX - IMAGE TO BE USED FULL SIZED ONLY This combimation of three pictures made on March 10, 2015 in Paris shows (from L) French olympians, sailor Florence Arthaud, swimmer Camille Muffat and boxer Alexis Vastine, all of whom died in a helicopter© Getty Images

"The Olympic movement mourns with their families and friends, their fellow athletes, the French National Olympic Committee and with France. The Olympic flag will be flown at half-mast for three days at the IOC Headquarters to honour these great champions."

Muffat won three medals in her career, including Olympic gold in the 400m freestyle at London 2012, while Vastine clinched boxing bronze at the Beijing Games seven years ago.

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Former French football international, Sylvain Wiltord (C) watches the action between Roger Federer of Switzerland and Jeremy Chardy  on October 29, 2014
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