New scientific research has given Oscar Pistorius, the double amputee, hope of overturning a ban which would keep him out of the Olympic Games. The South African's prostheses, the Cheetah FlexFoot which has earned him the nickname Blade Runner, were ruled to bestow an unreasonable advantage: the same speed for 25% less energy expended. The International Association of Athletics Federation consequently ruled that he may not compete against able-bodied athletes.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport is due to rule on March 25. In a documentary to be aired today, Pistorius claims new tests which he commission in Texas give "completely different" results.

"We're very optimistic," he said. "I am still hoping that I can make the cut-off to qualify for the Olympic Games."