Following last week's decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to cut spots for weightlifting at Tokyo by 25% the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) has approved the formation of a new anti-doping task force. 

The IWF Executive Board met in Tokyo this week to discuss the issues raised by the IOC decision, and determined a high-level task force was necessary to recommend different measures and initiatives to accomplish the goals necessary to be in compliance with the IOC. In a statement, the IWF wrote,

"The Olympic movement and weightlifting was indeed shocked by the result of the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games reanalysis and we recognize our responsibility as governing body of the Olympic sport of weightlifting." 

Furthermore the board agreed to take immediate action: "The IWF has always been fighting with determination against doping and those willing to affect the integrity of weightlifting sport, the Executive Board is this time again ready to adopt immediate actions and sanctions."

The IWF reiterated the importance of strengthening the collaboration between the IOC, National Olympic Committees and Member Federations to effectively prevent further doping situations. 

Story is developing, keep your eyes open for more news as we get it.

You can view the IWF's full statement below:

Following the IOC decision dated 9 June 2017, the IWF Executive Board met in Tokyo and discussed the issues raised.

The Olympic movement and weightlifting was indeed shocked by the result of the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games reanalysis and we recognize our responsibility as governing body of the Olympic sport of weightlifting.

Stating that the IWF has always been fighting with determination against doping and those willing to affect the integrity of weightlifting sport, the Executive Board is this time again ready to adopt immediate actions and sanctions.

As a first result of the open discussion, the Executive Board confirms that a high level task force will recommend the different measures and initiatives to accomplish the due goals.

Recognizing that there is always way for improvement, the IWF aims to strengthen the collaboration between the IOC, NOCs and Member Federations that is vital for an effective common fight and prevent such situations.

We are one -- with the same message: united behind our sport!
-IWF Executive Board