Russia return to sporting fold on hold for investigation into alleged doping cover-up

Russia's return to international sport has been delayed after allegations emerged that the head of its national anti-doping agency (Rusada) was involved in covering up drug test results at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, with WADA conducting an investigation. The IOC, while expressing continued concern over Russia, separately recommended lifting the ban on Belarusian athletes, who would now be permitted to compete under their own flag and anthem. No timeline was given for resolving the Russian situation pending the outcome of the doping cover-up inquiry.