Russian track and field athletes banned from international contests amid doping allegations

In the wake of a report alleging widespread doping in Russia, the international track and field federation has barred that country’s track athletes from competing internationally.

The IAAF’s provisional suspension, issued Friday after an emergency teleconference, could prevent the athletes from participating in the 2016 Olympic Games next summer.

“This has been a shameful wake-up call, and we are clear that cheating at any level will not be tolerated,” IAAF President Sebastian Coe said.

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It was last Monday that the World Anti-Doping Agency published evidence that Russian coaches, doctors and sports officials had encouraged and, in some cases, pressured athletes to take performance-enhancing drugs.

There were allegations that positive test results were covered up and that government officials may have been involved in the scheme.

Dick Pound, an IOC member from Canada who headed the investigation, recommended the Russian federation be suspended but also suggested it could be reinstated if proper reforms were undertaken.

Russian officials have admitted to some wrongdoing and vowed to make changes.

The IAAF council voted 22-1 in favor of suspension, deciding also that Russia not be allowed to host two previously scheduled competitions, the 2016 World Race Walking Team Championships and the 2016 Junior World Championships.

The international federation stated that its penalty will stand until Russia meets a list of criteria.

Speaking on behalf of the IAAF athletes commission, former sprinter Frankie Fredericks said: “We are angry at the damage being caused to the reputation and credibility of athletics and are united alongside our president to not shy away from the major challenges that face our sport.”

Follow David Wharton on Twitter @LATimesWharton.

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