Russian athletes remain hopeful of a slot in Rio despite ban

As the Rio Olympics approach, Russian athletes continue to prepare for the games despite a ban on the country’s athletics federation.

Russia was banned in November 2015 by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) over widespread doping allegations.

Still, the athletes remain hopeful that they will participate in the competition which the country has excelled in the past.

“Let’s not make premature plans. I hope it will be resolved in a good way for us. We hope to go to the Olympic Games and also for medals,” said Vera Rebrik, a Javelin thrower.

Moscow says it has done everything possible to clean up its act .However, opinions remain divided whether the Russian ban should remain in place

“We are all purposefully preparing for the Olympic Games. Now there will be the main qualification round at the Russian championships, after that we will prepare directly for the Olympics. And no one is thinking about what is going on now, everyone is preparing,” said Yuriy Borzakovskiy, the athletics team coach.

The verdict will be delivered on June 17 when the IAAF Council will meet in Vienna where Russia is hoping to be reinstated.

Reuters