Russia has been given a four years ban from all international sporting games by the World Anti-Doping Agency ’WADA’.
It means that no athlete will be able to compete under the Russian flag at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. And the 2022 Winter Games. While their place at the 2022 World Cup is also in danger.
But, athletes who can prove they are clear of the doping scandal will be able to compete under a neutral flag.
This is after the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) be declared non-compliant again. Over manipulation in anti-doping data found during an investigation.
WADA’s independent Compliance Review Committee (CRC) referred to strong penalties to be put on Russia. Involving a four-year ban from running and hosting any major sporting events.
On Monday, the body’s Executive Committee agreed with the recommendation at a meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland.
WADA says RUSADA has 21 days to appeal the ban. That would determine the referral of the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Despite the restrictions, Russian athletes can still run global competitions under a neutral flag. Just as 168 Russians at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeonchang when the country was banned.
Well, the authorities did not include UEFA as a major event organization. So, they will be able to compete in the Euro 2020 which St Petersburg will host.
Also, some parties, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC), can also appeal if RUSADA does not want to. But, all complaints have to come within 21 days of RUSADA accepting WADA’s decision.
And part of the ban contains Russia’s inability to host any major events for four years. Including the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
