MOSCOW/MONACO: Russian athletes can continue to compete – when it becomes possible – in international competition after the national association grudgingly paid a World Athletics fine of $5m plus $1.3m in costs.

The Russian Sports Ministry paid up just short of deadline threatening expulsion from the world governing body.

A ministry statement said: “An unprecedented decision has been taken on the granting of a grant to the Russian Athletics Federation for the development of sport, including for the settlement of the debt with World Athletics.

“The defence of the interests of Russian athletes, the restoration of the right of Russian athletes to participate in international competitions are among the  priorities.”

RusAF must still present a reorganisation proposal by August 31 then a final version to be approved by the World Athletics Council.

Russian sport is still threatened with the four-year Olympic suspension recommended by the World Anti Doping Agency over the doiping cover-up scandal.

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