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The IAAF is due
to take a decision today on whether or not to ban Russia from
forthcoming competitions including the 2016 Olympics, a step
recommended on Monday by a commission set up by the World
Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) which alleged widespread doping by
Russian athletes.
"The situation the Russian National team is in now is very sad
but I ask you not to treat all the athletes in the same negative
way," Isinbayeva said in an open letter, addressed to the world
athletics community, on the website of the All-Russia Athletic
Federation.
"I hope for the leaders of the IAAF will show wisdom," she said,
predicting "the correct decision will be taken".
"Those who are guilty will pay their price, and those who are
innocent will have the opportunity to compete and represent our
country in a dignified manner at all international sports
arenas."
Isinbayeva, 33, is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, a
three-time World Champion, and holds the current world record
holder in the event.
(Reporting by Jason Bush; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
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