Russian athletes to remain banned from international competition

Russia were banned in November following accusations of state-sponsored doping

Russian athletes remain banned from international competition including the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

Athletics chiefs have decided not to lift the suspension, which was imposed in November following accusations of state-sponsored doping.

But individual athletes can compete as neutrals if they prove they are clean.

Meanwhile, Russian pole vaulter Yelena Isinbayeva said she would challenge the IAAF’s decision in court, claiming it was “a human rights violation.”

In a statement, Russia’s Ministry of Sport said it was “extremely disappointed” by the decision.

It continued: “Clean athletes’ dreams are being destroyed because of the reprehensible behaviour of other athletes and officials. They have sacrificed years of their lives striving to compete at the Olympics and now that sacrifice looks likely to be wasted.

“We have done everything possible since the ban was first imposed to regain the trust of the international community. We have rebuilt our anti-doping institutions which are being led by respected international experts.

“Our athletes are being tested by the UK’s anti-doping agency (UKAD) and every one of them is undergoing a minimum of three tests in addition to the usual requirements. We have nothing to hide and feel we had met the IAAF’s conditions for re-entry.”

Isinbayeva, 34, who won Olympic gold in 2004 and 2008, added: “I will not remain silent, I will take measures. I will appeal to the human rights court.”

IAAF taskforce report – what Russia needs to do

A summary of the taskforce report states Russia must show a culture of zero tolerance towards doping in athletics.

Although significant progress has been made to meet the IAAF’s criteria, work still remains. In particular:

• The deep-seated culture of tolerance for doping appears not to have changed. The head coach of the athletics team and athlete appear unwilling to acknowledge the extent of the doping problem.
• A strong and effective anti-doping infrastructure capable of detecting and deterring doping has still not been created.
• There are detailed allegations that the Ministry of Sport has orchestrated systematic doping and cover-ups.

However, the report does state that if individual athletes can convincingly show they are not tainted by the system, they will be allowed to compete in international competition, not for Russia but as a neutral athlete.