It is not only athletes who have to undergo "doping tests" these days as chemistry takes centre stage. Japanese rider Kazuto Sakata was confirmed as world 125cc motorcycling champion following a meeting of the sport's governing body this week. The Aprilla rider thought he had clinched the title by finishing fourth in the Australian Grand Prix on October 4th, but was set to lose it to compatriot Tomomi Manako after his bike failed a "dope" test.

However, a second test of Sakata's fuel in a Milan laboratory earlier this month showed it was within all limits. Because of the significant discrepancies between the results of the tests, the matter was submitted to International Motorcyling Federation's (FIM) Grand Prix Permanent Bureau.

And they ruled on Monday that the second test would stand and that Sakata would be crowned champion for the second time, following his success in 1994.

"He cannot now be declassified - the second fuel test was in order," FIM spokesman Mark Petrier said on Tuesday. But Petrier added that the rules covering testing procedure would be changed for next season. Roll out the lawyers.