Russian Anti-Doping Agency Names Temporary Chief Executive

Outgoing Russian Anti-Doping Agency Director-General Anna Antseliovich

The Russian anti-doping agency, which has been suspended over an alleged cover-up of widespread doping in Russia, on March 20 named a new acting chief executive.

The agency -- known as RUSADA -- said on its website that Tatyana Chirkina has taken charge temporarily.

Russian media reported Chirkina was previously the organization's chief accountant and her appointment will last only until a candidate for the permanent position is found.

Chirkina succeeds Anna Antseliovich, who became acting CEO in December 2015, shortly after the agency's suspension was announced by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Antseliovich left this month.

RUSADA was suspended over allegations its staff concealed drug use by Russian athletes. The British anti-doping agency is handling drug tests for Russian athletes now.

With reporting by Reuters, Interfax, and TASS