Independent experts to help Russia address doping scandal

The World Anti-Doping Agency has named two independent experts -- including a former war crimes investigator -- to work with Russia on rebuilding its embattled national drug-testing system.

Peter Nicholson, an Australian criminal investigations specialist, and Ieva Lukosiute-Stanikuniene, a Lithuanian anti-doping official, are scheduled to arrive in Moscow over the next month or so.

Nicholson previously served on cycling’s independent reform commission.

“WADA is pleased that they have accepted the challenge,” said Sir Craig Reedie, the agency’s president. “Appointing the experts was a central part of the agreed ‘road map,’ and it is a vital step forward in ensuring that athlete and public trust returns to the Russian anti-doping system and Russian sport.”

The Russian Anti-Doping Agency -- which was supposed to be policing its country’s athletes -- was shut down last year after a WADA report alleged widespread cheating in the sport of track and field.

Russia’s track program was subsequently banned from international competition.

It remains unclear how this latest development might effect that sanction. The international track federation is scheduled to meet in mid-June to decide whether the Russians will be reinstated in time for the 2016 Summer Olympics.