Kenya’s marathon world record holder, Ruth Chepngetich, has been banned for three years by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after admitting to anti-doping rule violations. The 31-year-old athlete tested positive for the banned diuretic hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) in March, with a concentration of 3,800ng/mL, far exceeding the World Anti-Doping Agency’s minimum reporting limit of 20ng/mL. Chepngetich initially denied any wrongdoing but later changed her explanation, stating that she had unknowingly taken her housemaid’s medication, which contained HCTZ, while ill.
The AIU considered Chepngetich’s actions reckless and indirectly intentional, initially applying a four-year sanction. However, her early admission earned her a one-year reduction, resulting in a three-year ban issued on September 10. Despite the ban, Chepngetich’s achievements and records pre-dating the March 14 sample, including her world record of 2:09:56 set at the 2024 Chicago Marathon, will still stand.
The AIU will continue to investigate suspicious material recovered from Chepngetich’s phone to determine if any other violations have occurred. This case highlights the ongoing issue of doping in marathon running, particularly among Kenyan athletes, who are renowned for their middle and long-distance running prowess. The AIU’s decision underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the sport and ensuring that all athletes compete fairly and safely.
