Russia ‘disappointed’ in decision to uphold ban on track and field athletes

MOSCOW (AP) — The Russian Sports Ministry says it is “extremely disappointed” that the IAAF has ruled to uphold its ban on the country’s track and field athletes competing in international competitions, including the Olympics.

The ministry says Russia had done “everything possible” to be readmitted following its ban in November.

The ministry adds “we now appeal to the members of the International Olympic Committee to not only consider the impact that our athletes’ exclusion will have on their dreams and the people of Russia, but also that the Olympics themselves will be diminished by their absence.”

The IOC meets Tuesday and could overrule the IAAF ban by allowing members of the Russian team to compete.

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