Friday, August 22, 2008 - 7:04 PM

Patrick Johnson says the decision not to send a men's sprint relay team to the Beijing Olympics was wrong, and could have cost Australia a place in tonight's final.

The US was among six teams to crash out of the men's 4 x 100 metres relay in last night's heats when they dropped the baton, while Great Britain and Italy were both disqualified.

Australia qualified a team in the event but Athletics Australia chose not to compete in Beijing.

Johnson says he is at a loss to explain the decision.

"Clearly disappointed that Australia wasn't represented... my clear understanding is that there was a focus in the funding for the 4 x100 relay and I have to ask the hard questions," he said.

"Why didn't the selectors not have the confidence or have the fortitude to allow the relay squad to be at the Olympic Games?"