OREANDA-NEWS. The World Athletics Council decided to fine the Russian Athletics Federation (RusAF) 10 million US dollars because of violation of anti-doping rules. At the same time, the procedure for issuing neutral status for athletes was restored, but the number of those who will be allowed to participate in the Tokyo Olympics, European and international competitions is limited to ten people.

“The package of sanctions approved by the Council today reflects the seriousness of RusAF’s wrongdoing and sends a clear message that we take these types of offenses by our Member Federations extremely seriously. We have consistently tried to separate the clean athletes from a tainted system,” President of World Athletics Sebastian Coe said.

If the first part of the fine, 5 million dollars, is not paid before July 1, 2020, restrictions on the number of athletes who can participate in international one-day competitions will be introduced.

World Athletics also indicated steps to restore RusAF’s status: creation of commissions with participation of representatives of two organizations, presentation of a detailed plan to ensure zero tolerance for doping in athletics in Russia and other clauses.