This according to Rule 45 of the Olympic Charter - "Regulations regarding participation in the Olympic Games". This rule has been in force since 1 July, 2008. The rule says: "The IOC Executive Board, in accordance with Rule 19.3.10 OC and pursuant to Rule 45 OC, hereby issues the following rules regarding participation in the Olympic Games: 1. Any person who has been sanctioned with a suspension of more than six months by any anti-doping organization for any violation of any anti-doping regulations may not participate, in any capacity, in the next edition of the Games of the Olympiad and of the Olympic Winter Games following the date of expiry of such suspension. 2. These Regulations apply to violations of any anti-doping regulations that are committed as of 1 july 2008. They are notified to all International Federations, to all National Olympic Committees and all Organising Committees for the Olympic Games.