British Cycling is not in crisis despite technical director Shane Sutton having resigned amid claims of sexism and discrimination, according to its chief executive Ian Drake.
The governing body is investigating claims Sutton, 58, used derogatory words to describe Para-cyclists.
An independent review will also look at cyclist Jess Varnish's claims that the Australian made sexist comments and told her to "go and have a baby".
Sutton "rejects the specific claims".
Speaking to BBC sports editor Dan Roan, Drake said Sutton's resignation - and the review into the behaviour and culture of the organisation - would "hopefully" not cost the team medals at the Rio 2016 Olympics.
Sutton left his post on the day British athletes and Para-athletes marked the start of the 100-day countdown to this summer's Games.
He said the allegations against him had "become a distraction" and he had stepped down "in the best interests of British Cycling".
Asked if his organisation was now in crisis, Drake said: "Not at all. We have to get the independent review right and there is no point having a system where people feel they are not in a supportive environment and not potentially being given a duty of care."
And asked whether Sutton "jumped before he was pushed", Drake also denied it, adding: "Shane's ultimately about the athletes succeeding. With this distraction around Shane, it just wasn't the best place for Shane to continue."
Programmes director Andy Harrison is taking over from Sutton.
Drake told BBC Sport:
- He was "very much" surprised by the allegations.
- He accepts "any allegations around the system" will "damage" British Cycling.
- Anyone with experiences of "completely unacceptable language or derogatory terms" should come forward.
- The distraction of allegations around Sutton was "potentially detrimental" to Rio hopes, but Sutton will play a full part in the review.
- A new generation of coaches has "refreshed the system".
- Inspiring people to take up cycling is more important than medals.
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