Russia has been barred from competing as a country at the 2018 Olympics in Pyeongchang over doping concerns, the International Olympic Committee ruled Tuesday.

  • IOC: Russia can't compete as team at 2018 Winter Olympics
  • Committee says there's evidence it engaged in systemic doping
  • Russians may be invited to compete as individuals but can't wear flag

The IOC also fined the Russian Olympic committee $15 million.

Some Russians will be invited to compete as neutral athletes, designated "Olympic Athlete from Russia," without a Russian flag or emblem.

Russia could refuse the offer and boycott the games. President Vladimir Putin has said that it would be humiliating if Russians competed without their flag.

The IOC found evidence that Russia conducted an orchestrated doping program at the 2014 Sochi Games.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.