WADA wants all Russian athletes banned from Rio 2016 Olympics

A general view of the IOC Anti-Doping Laboratory based at the Richmond Olympic Oval on February 9, 2010 in Vancouver, Canada
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The World Anti-Doping Agency recommends banning all Russian athletes from the Rio 2016 Olympics following accusations of 'state-sponsored doping'

The World Anti-Doping Agency has recommended banning all Russian athletes from the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro after accusing the nation of 'state-sponsored doping'.

It has been alleged that the Russian Ministry of Sport "directed, controlled and oversaw" the manipulation of athletes' results or samples during the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.

According to TASS, after the findings were released, WADA spokesman Ben Nichols tweeted: "WADA calls on Sport Movement to deny Russian athletes participation at international competitions including Rio until 'culture change' achieved."

The nation's track and field athletes have already been banned from competing due to widespread doping accusations.

IOC Executive Committee Member Thomas Bach looks on during the 125th IOC Session - IOC Presidential Election at the Hilton Hotel on on September 10, 2013
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