An appeal to allow Russian track and field athletes to compete at the upcoming Rio Olympic Games has been upheld.

It means 68 athletes have been banned from the Rio Games.

Former ASADA CEO Richard Ings spoke to Ross Greenwood about the significance of the decision by CAS.

‘For the first time in living memory there will be no Russian track and field competitors in the showcase athletics events at an Olympic Games,’ he said.

‘It’s a monumental decision.’

‘It opens the door for other international federations to take the lead of the IAAF and look at whether they will impose similar bans to Russian competitors in other sports.’

At the 2012 London Games Russia won its most medals from track and field events, with a total of 16.

Click PLAY to hear Ross Greenwood with Richard Ings