World Paralympic body sets doping rules for Russia’s return

BONN, Germany – The International Paralympic Committee has detailed anti-doping standards Russia must meet to regain membership after a state-backed doping program was exposed.

The IPC says Russia’s Paralympic body must also “publicly distance itself from all political/propaganda-type statements issued by Russian authorities.”

Russia was excluded from the Rio de Janeiro Paralympics based on evidence of cheating published in July by a World Anti-Doping Agency investigation.

With WADA-appointed investigator Richard McLaren set to reveal his final report on Dec. 9, the IPC says Russia’s reinstatement rules could change.

The IPC says Russia’s Paralympic body must comply with the World Anti-Doping Code, and anti-doping programs must operate “without external interference.”

The IPC wants to see Russia establish “a strong anti-doping culture.”

It will appoint a five-member task force to oversee Russia’s reinstatement process.