"This is something that obviously has to be discussed by the executive board," IOC President Jacques Rogge told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

Rogge said the rule-making board would consider the options on Friday.

Asked whether the continuation of the international relay was certain, he said: "I'm not saying whether it is certain or not. There will be a discussion of the executive board on the torch relay but I attach on that absolutely no speculation whatsoever."

The torch relay has been disrupted in Greece, Istanbul, London and Paris by protesters opposed to China's policies in Tibet and overall human rights record. More problems are expected Wednesday in San Francisco, the only North American leg of the relay.

"I'm definitely concerned about what has happened in London and in Paris," Rogge said. "I'm deeply saddened by the fact that such an important symbol has been attacked. We recognize the right for people to protest and express their views but it should be non-violent. We are very sad for all the athletes and the people who expected so much from the run and have been spoiled of their joy."

On Monday, organizers were forced to cancel the last third of the Paris route after demonstrators hurled water at the flame and lunged at torchbearers. The security detail protecting the torch had to repeatedly extinguish it along the route and retreat to the safety of a bus, although the Olympic flame continually burns in a lantern brought along the route.

After San Francisco, the torch is scheduled to travel to Buenos Aires, and then to a dozen other countries before entering mainland China on May 4 for the domestic portion of the relay.

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