"Your average athlete wants a harder stance on doping," said van Koeverden in an interview on CBC's Metro Morning. Canadian Olympian Adam van Koeverden says the International Olympic Committee made "the wrong decision," when it comes to allowing Russian athletes to compete in the upcoming Rio Olympics. Don't give up on athletesDespite the scandal, van Koeverden says Canadians can be proud of their athletes as they head to Rio. Clean athletes collateral damage, Van Koeverden saysVan Koeverden, who has spoken out against the political pressures put on athletes during an Olympic year, said fellow Canadian Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser influenced his opinion on the IOC's decision. Earlier this month, the World Anti-Doping Agency released a report showing an elaborate state-sponsored doping network in Russia, and a call from the organization to ban all Russian athletes from competing in Rio.

Source: CBC News July 25, 2016 14:39 UTC