Antidoping Switzerland welcomes the firm and fair decision of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to suspend Russia from the 2018 Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea.

The IOC's decision is based on the findings and recommendations of the investigatory commission led by former Federal Councillor Samuel Schmid. The report clearly confirms that Russia systematically manipulated the anti-doping rules, with responsibility lying with both the Russian Ministry of Sport and the Russian Olympic Committee. These bodies will therefore be punished for their actions. However, subject to strict conditions, clean Russian athletes will still be able to take part in the Games in PyeongChang. They will not be permitted to wear any national emblems, neither will the Russian national anthem be played. “The IOC decision sends a strong signal in favour of clean sport and against doping,” commented Matthias Kamber, Director of Antidoping Switzerland. He continued: “It's not a political decision, but a fair ruling in keeping with the sporting spirit.”

Antidoping Switzerland is a member of the Institute of National Anti-Doping Organisations, iNADO. For the iNADO statement, please click here.