The world's governing athletics body Wednesday hardened its transfer of allegiance rules in the wake of a growing number of athletes turning out for rich countries.

Under the new rule agreed by the 45th International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Council here, an athlete is banned from competing at championships for three years from the day he receives citizenship of the new country.

The old rule also had a three-year ban, but starting with the last day of competition for the former country.

However, if both countries agree on the transfer of allegiance, the athlete will be allowed to compete again at big events after a year.

The development comes at a time when the world athletics meet begins here Aug. 6.

The allegiance rules have been tightened over the past two years since Kenyan Stephen Cherono moved to Qatar in August 2003 and won the 3,000 metres steeplechase world title under the name Saif Saaeed Shaheen a few days later.

Two other Kenyan runners also became Qatari citizens.

In another development, legendary Polish runner Irena Szewinska became the third woman Wednesday to be elected to the powerful IAAF Council.

The 59-year-old Szewinska, competed in five Olympics (1964-1980), winning three gold medals, two silver and two bronze. The sprinter (and long jumper) also set 10 world records in her illustrious career.