Athletics Ireland statement on IAAF's decision on Russian participation

Athletics Ireland welcomes the decision to uphold the suspension of the Russian federation from international competition.

Athletics Ireland CEO John Foley commented:

"We welcome the IAAF’s decision to continue the ban imposed on the Russian federation since last November.

“Given the scale of infringements committed in recent years, we believe the decision is appropriate and the Olympic Games in Rio is just too early for Russia to return to competition.

"In our view it’s a positive step for the sport along the journey to retrieving the reputation of athletics.

"We understand the desire of the IAAF to facilitate clean athletes from Russia who have adhered to strict independent anti-doping procedures and testing.  However, they have acknowledged today that this is an issue brought to the fore for legal reasons and  a 'difficult issue' which they are seeking to address through the change in their rules."

Athletics Ireland President Georgina Drumm also welcomed the decision and said:

"Today's decision is a step in ensuring that the credibility of the sport is being restored. In turn it helps the sport to return to its core values which in Ireland are driven on by close to 60,000 members of Athletics Ireland and the volunteers who support them."