Algerian runner Taoufik Makhloufi has been banished from the London Olympics for not trying in his 800m heat. Source: AP

ALGERIAN runner Taoufik Makhloufi, one of the favourites for the gold medal in the 1500m, has been excluded from the Olympics for not trying in his 800m heat this morning, organisers confirmed.

The 24-year-old won his 1500m semi-final in 3:42.24 last night, surprisingly beating Kenyan Olympic and world champion Asbel Kiprop.
Makhloufi lined up again in heat five of the 800m today, but went off very slowly before giving up after barely half a lap and wandering off the track.
A statement from organisers said: "The referee considered that he had not provided a bona fide effort and decided to exclude him from participation in all further events in the competition under Rule 142.4.''
The rule concerns failure to participate, which included failure to compete honestly.
Makhloufi was reportedly forced to race in the 800m after Algeria failed to withdraw him from the event before Sunday's deadline.


The 1500m final will take place on Tuesday night.Makhloufi's exclusion follows that of eight badminton players who were thrown out of the Games for deliberately trying to lose matches.



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