Marathon Star Ruth Chepngetich Suspended Over Doping Concerns

• Jul 17, 2025

Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich, who made headlines by breaking the women’s marathon world record last year, has been suspended from competition over suspected doping, according to the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

Chepngetich tested positive for the banned diuretic hydrochlorothiazide following a sample collected on April 3, 2025. The AIU confirmed her provisional suspension on Thursday, raising concerns about the integrity of her recent performances.

The 29-year-old athlete stunned the world when she clocked an astonishing 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 56 seconds at the Chicago Marathon in October 2024. That record-breaking performance shaved nearly two minutes off the previous women’s marathon world record, making her one of the most celebrated long-distance runners in recent years.

Hydrochlorothiazide, the substance found in Chepngetich’s system, is not a performance enhancer on its own. However, it is banned because it can be used to mask the presence of other performance-enhancing drugs. Diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide help the body eliminate excess water and salt through urine and may be used to dilute urine samples during drug tests.

The Athletics Integrity Unit has not yet provided additional details on the case, and Chepngetich has not issued a public statement regarding the suspension or the findings.

Chepngetich is among Kenya’s top marathoners and has won several high-profile races, including the 2019 World Athletics Championships marathon in Doha. Her recent record in Chicago was celebrated globally as a major milestone in women’s distance running.

The provisional suspension means she is temporarily barred from competing while the investigation continues. If the violation is confirmed after a hearing, Chepngetich could face a lengthy ban and the possible annulment of her recent results.

This development is another blow to Kenya's athletics reputation, which has been marred by several doping scandals in recent years. The country remains under pressure from international athletics bodies to address drug use in sport and maintain the credibility of its elite runners.

Chepngetich’s case will now proceed through the AIU’s disciplinary process. A final decision will be made based on further testing, her response, and an official hearing.