Athletics: Russia takes case to CAS over ban

The Russian Athletics Federation is taking its case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), challenging the continued ban of its athletes from international competitions. This move comes just two days after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowed Russia's return, but World Athletics has maintained its suspension of Russian and Belarusian athletes.

The federation stated that the fundamental interests of athletics in Russia are being harmed and that they feel discriminated against. This appeal directly counters the World Athletics Council's decision last week to uphold the ban. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe had previously indicated discussions about a conditional path back for Russian athletes, but the organization ultimately decided against lifting the suspension.

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We note the appeal of the Russian Athletics Federation to the CAS and will vigorously defend our position.

Russian and Belarusian athletes were barred from international events following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This is not the first time Russian athletics has faced international sanctions; the country was previously suspended in November 2015 due to systematic doping. Since then, individual Russian athletes have only been allowed to compete as neutrals after rigorous vetting. The current ban is a separate measure imposed due to the ongoing conflict.

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fundamental interests of athletics in Russia are being harmed