Russia faces a possible ban from next year's Olympics after a scathing report released today by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) found state-sponsored "widespread cheating" among its athletes.

In concluding a nearly year-long investigation, the WADA report confirmed the use of doping substances and methods to "ensure, or enhance the likelihood of, victory for athletes and teams."

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The report said the cheating was done by the athletes' entourages, officials and the athletes themselves.

"Evidence of extensive doping use is supported and confirmed by audio and video evidence, scientific evidence, corroborative statements, cyber analysis and related reporting documents," said the report. "Numerous statements corroborate the original allegations and further detail the extensive use of doping substances and blood doping within Russian athletics."

There was also evidence that coaches have attempted to sabotage doping reports and testing procedures, and have counseled athletes on how to use performance enhancing drugs (PEDs). Additionally, the coaches are supported by medical professionals.

"It is particularly alarming that there appears to be a collective disregard for the athletes' current or future state of health," said the report.

In response to the report, Sebastian Coe, president of the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) is seeking approval from other IAAF Council members to consider sanctions against the Russian Athletics Federation (ARAF).

"The information in WADA's Independent Commissions Report is alarming. We need time to properly digest and understand the detailed findings included in the report," said Coe in a statement. "However, I have urged the Council to start the process of considering sanctions against ARAF. This step has not been taken lightly ... We will do whatever it takes to protect the clean athletes and rebuild trust in our sport. The IAAF will continue to offer the police authorities our full co-operation into their ongoing investigation."

The possible sanctions include banning the country from competing in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

TagsRussia Faces Possible Ban From 2016 Olympics, world anti-doping agency, WADA, International Association of Athletics Federation, IAAF, Sebastian Coe, blood doping, ped's, performance enhancing drugs, Russian Athletics Federation, ARAF, 2016 Olympics, cheating