Lewis says it is time for governments to get tough with drugs cheats

Olympic legend Carl Lewis has called on governments around the world to make the use of banned substances in sport a criminal offence.

Lewis, who won nine Olympic golds during a glittering career, believes only urgent action can rescue athletics' drug-tarnished reputation.

He told BBC Sport: "If people want a clean sport, we must bring together governments, the public and athletes.

"I would change the law - if you test positive, why can't it be illegal?"

Lewis's call comes against a backdrop of doping scandals that have left athletics on its knees - a depressing scenario with the Beijing Olympics only three months away.

Lewis says it is time for governments to get tough with drugs cheats