"We would like to thank WADA's independent Compliance Review Committee (CRC) and the WADA Intelligence & Investigations Team for resolute work and preparation for today's decision," said Dr. Andrea Gotzmann, CEO of the National Anti Doping Agency of Germany.
"Those responsible for Russian sport and the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) had many opportunities to admit misconduct and correct it in the sense of fair sport. The clear evidence now available shows that manipulation continued instead. We therefore call upon all parties involved, including not only RUSADA, but also the International Olympic Committee, the Paralympic Committee and the International Federations to acknowledge the decision of the CRC and implement the decision without further delay," Gotzmann continues.
"There will only be a rethink if systematic manipulation of this magnitude is given corresponding consequences and it becomes clear that the long-term fraud on clean athletes around the world is unacceptable. The decision that has now been taken is already the lowest common denominator and should not be further diluted," said Gotzmann: "The implementation of the decision must create clarity and legal certainty with regard to all upcoming sporting events."