SUVA, Fiji (AP) -- Fiji's Olympic athletes could be offered sanctuary in Sydney because of unrest in their country, a top Olympics official said Monday.

 Kevan Gosper, vice president of the International Olympic Committee, is trying to determine if the athletes need financial or other assistance, including free passage.

 Fiji's elected government, led by ethnic Indians, was overthrown May 19 and 27 people remain hostages.

 Gosper opposes sanctions against Fiji, contending such a move would only hurt the athletes.

 Fiji's Olympic team consists of nine athletes, and some already train overseas.

 Gosper is also trying to include a team from newly independent East Timor in the Sydney Games, which begin Sept. 15.