The Russian Athletics Federation has suspended five of its athletes as a result of doping offences.
Hammer thrower Maria Bespalova, who competed at London 2012, has received a four-year ban, as have middle-distance runner Vlas Bredikhin and 400m specialist Yaroslav Kholopov.
Double Russian 5,000m champion Maria Konovalova will not be permitted to compete for two years, while race-walker Evgeny Nushtaev has been handed a six-month suspension.
Due to the nature of the offence, none of the quintet will ever be allowed to compete in another Olympic Games.
Written by
Liam Apicella
Liam Apicella
