News / News Bulletin

'At least 8 Russian athletes miss Rio Olympic games'

Tuesday, 26 July 2016 10:11 AM [ Last Update: Tuesday, 26 July 2016 10:11 AM ]

This file photo taken on November 18, 2015 shows Russia's top Olympic official Alexander Zhukov. AFP

Russia's top Olympic official Alexander Zhukov has revealed that at least 8 of their country’s athletes will miss the upcoming Rio Games under the new law set by the International Olympic Committee.

According to the rules set by the IOC on Sunday, Russian athletes with a proven doping history will not be allowed to compete in the event even if they have served their sanctions.

Zukov did not name the athletes but said that the numbers could rise. Competitors in swimming, cycling and weightlifting are the ones who are likely to be affected.

The decision comes after the World Anti-Doping Agency called for a Rio ban in response to the independent McLaren report that found evidence of widespread state-sponsored doping by Russian athletes at the 20-14 Winter Olympics in Sochi.

The Olympic Games in Rio will kick off on August the 5th.

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