Russia is banished from all international sports competitions for two years, announced the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The World Anti-Doping Agency had called for a four-year suspension after Russia failed to comply with their code. Russia was involved in an anti-doping scandal a few years ago. Whistleblower Grigory Rodchenkov revealed the existence of a state-run doping program.
However, the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled for a partial two-year ban this Thursday. The decision means that Russia will not be able to participate in both the summer and winter Olympics. Moreover, they are banned from the Qatar World Cup to be held later that year.
Nonetheless, Russian athletes who have never been involved in doping activity can play at the World Cup under neutral colors. Russia’s flag and anthem have been prohibited from all international sporting competitions.
Additionally, WADA reacted to the court’s decision which cut their sentencing in half.
“WADA is pleased to have won this landmark case. We are, however, disappointed that the CAS Panel did not endorse each and every one of our recommended consequences for the four-year period we requested,” said President Witold Bańka.
“Russia will not be permitted to participate in, bid for, or host any covered event, including two editions of the Olympic and Paralympic Games and many other major events, for the next two years. The Russian flag will not fly nor its anthem played. This sends a clear message that institutionalized cheating and concerted efforts to subvert the global anti-doping system will not be tolerated,” he added.
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