A total of 109 National Federations voted in favour of Saudi Arabia being approved as a member, with just four against.

Kosovo had also looked set to join the worldwide governing body along with Saudi Arabia, but its bid to become part of the organisation was removed from the agenda at the last minute.

World Triathlon said Kosovo was not put forward for membership as the National Federation was missing one of the documents required.

Two members - Pakistan and Myanmar - remain suspended by World Triathlon.

Changes to World Triathlon's constitution, including expanding the eligibility requirements for associate membership and allowing the organisation to hold future General Assemblies in a virtual format, were also approved during the meeting.

World Triathlon President Marisol Casado, who was re-elected during the meeting, announced Therese Harper of the Virgin Islands as the winner of the Women's Committee award of excellence.

Harper, secretary general of Virgin Islands Triathlon, was among nine women nominated for the prize and said she was "honoured" to receive the award.

"I was completely surprised but also proud to win this award," she said.

"This brings recognition to the Virgin Islands.

"Working here has many challenges. 

"Sport is not always appreciated here so some days I feel like a cheerleader."

The Congress had been due to take place in Paris but was changed to a virtual format because of travel restrictions and other measures imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic.