Rogge wary of Russian doping cases

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge urged Russia on Monday to get tougher on drug cheats, voicing his concern at the high number of doping cases among Russian biathletes and cross-country skiers.

Just four days before the start of the Vancouver Games, Rogge said he raised the matter in recent meetings with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Russian sports officials.

“We have alerted the Russian authorities and we expect them to comply,” Rogge said. “I understand that people are worried by the numbers. It is absolutely legitimate to be worried. It is now important for the Russian authorities to respond with strong anti-doping actions.”

Rogge said it is up to the World Anti-Doping Agency to monitor Russia’s record and compliance with drug rules.

More than half a dozen Russians have been suspended in the past year for using banned blood-boosting drugs.

“I was puzzled by the numbers,” Rogge said. “That’s why I spoke to the president of the republic. That is expressing concern.”

The Russians will be under tight scrutiny during the Vancouver Games, where the IOC is conducting a record 2,000 urine and blood tests – 800 more than in Turin four years ago. Under a testing program that began last Thursday, athletes are subject to surprise out-of-competition controls at any place and at any time. (AP)