From correspondents in Beijing, China, 07:01 PM IST

Brunei was excluded from the Beijing Olympics shortly ahead of Friday's opening ceremony by the International Olympic Committee because it failed to register athletes in time.

'It is a great shame and very sad for the athletes who lose out because of the decision by their team not to register them. The IOC tried until the last minute (midday Friday) to have them register, but to no avail,' said IOC spokeswoman Emmanuelle Moreau.

Two athletes were originally due to represent Brunei, a swimmer and a shot putter.

Brunei is now the only IOC member not competing in the Beijing Games which will now see 204 participating nations.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)