Russia can play in 2022 World Cup qualifiers, says WADA-linked official

An official linked to World Anti-Doping ncy said on Monday Russia can participate in qualifying for 2022 World Cup despite receiving a four-year ban from major global sporting events. WADA's executive committee placed suspension on Russia earlier in day after accusing Moscow of falsifying laboratory doping data handed over to investigators this year.

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WADA hands Russia 4-year ban

"Because qualifiers don't decide world champion, Russia can take part. decision applies to World Cup tournament because it decides world champion," said Jonathan Taylor, chairman of WADA's Compliance Review Committee. "FIFA would come with some new proposals," he added. World football's governing body said earlier on Monday it was seeking clarification about extent of suspension. Russia hosted 2018 World Cup. "FIFA has taken te of decision taken by WADA Executive Committee today," a statement said. "FIFA is in contact with WADA and ASOIF (Association of Summer Olympic International Federations) to clarify extent of decision in regards to football," it added.

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Russia will be ruled out of next Olympic cycle, and its government's officials will be barred from attending any major events, while country will lose right to host, or even bid, for tournaments. Under sanctions, Russian athletes will still be allowed to compete at Olympics next year and 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics but only if y can demonstrate that y were t part of what WADA believes was a state-sponsored system of doping. Russia's participation at Euro 2020, in which Saint Petersburg will host four matches, is t affected by ban because it is t defined as a "major event" for anti-doping purposes.

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