The International Olympic Committee has announced that new rules would make it impossible for doping offenders caught at the Beijing Olympics to participate in future games.

The rules which were ratified during an IOC executive board meeting in Athens will see athletes who are sanctioned for six months or more for a doping offence being banned from taking part in the next Olympics.

The rule goes into effect on the first of July.

First time offenders of doping and steroid use normally earn a two-year suspension.