One somewhat close quote that popped to mind (from lukeprog’s article on philosophy):
Second, if you want to contribute to cutting-edge problems, even ones that seem philosophical, it’s far more productive to study math and science than it is to study philosophy. You’ll learn more in math and science, and your learning will be of a higher quality.
One other issue is that a near precondition for IMO-type recognition is coming from at least a middle class family and having either an immediate family member or early teacher able to recognize and direct that talent. Worse, as these competitions have increased in stature, you have an increasing number of the students pushed by parents and provided regular tutoring and preparation. Those sorts of hothouse personalities would seem to be some of the more risky to put on an FAI team.