Whistleblower barred from Rio 2016

Yuliya Stepanova, the Russian 800-metre runner who lifted the lid on systematic doping fraud and corruption in Russian athletics, will not compete in the Rio Olympics next month, the IOC said Sunday.

In a statement, the IOC said: “While it is true that Mrs Stepanova's testimony and public statements have made a contribution to the protection and promotion of clean athletes, fair play and the integrity and authenticity of sport, the rules of the Olympic Charter related to the organisation of the Olympic Games run counter to the recognition of the status of neutral athlete.

“Furthermore, the sanction to which she was subject and the circumstances in which she denounced the doping practices which she had used herself, do not satisfy the ethical requirements for an athlete to enter the Games.

"However, the IOC EB would like to express its appreciation for Mrs Stepanova's contribution to the fight against doping and to the integrity of sport," the IOC EB said.