The IAAF called on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to adopt stronger penalties for doping, including a four-year ban for serious first-time violations.

"We remain convinced that strong penalties are an important cornerstone of an effective anti-doping campaign in general, and in athletics in particular," the International Association of Athletics Federations Congress said in a statement.

WADA currently has a two-year penalty for serious violations by initial offenders.

The agency is reviewing its anti-doping code and will adopt a revised one in November. It is unlikely to approve the changes sought by the IAAF.

Marathon champion Gharib pulls out

Two-times marathon champion Jaouad Gharib of Morocco has pulled out of the World Championships, organisers said.

"After having taken some extra time off after London due to a slight injury, he decided to forego the worlds," Eric Lilot, who manages the Moroccan, told organisers.

The 35-year-old won world titles in 2003 and 2005.

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