The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has announced a six-year ban for World Championship 10,000 meters and 10-kilometer road-running world record-holder, Rhonex Kipruto, citing doping violations. The decision, which will see Kipruto sidelined until May 10, 2029, was detailed in a statement issued on Wednesday.
The AIU’s investigation led to the conclusion that Kipruto had engaged in doping, based on analysis of samples he had provided. As a consequence, not only will Kipruto serve a lengthy suspension from competitive athletics, but several of his past achievements will also be annulled.
Among the titles stripped from Kipruto are his world record in the 10-kilometer road race, set in Valencia, Spain, in 2020, his 10,000 meters bronze medal from the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Doha, and his 10,000 meters victory at the 2019 Stockholm Diamond League. In addition to these, all of Kipruto’s competitive results from September 2, 2018, to May 11, 2023, have been invalidated.
“This means the athlete’s 10-kilometre road-running world record in Valencia in 2020; 10,000 metres bronze medal in the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Doha and 10,000 metres victory in the 2019 Stockholm Diamond League, among many other honours, will be annulled,” the AIU stated.
The ban marks a significant fall from grace for Kipruto, who had been celebrated as one of the top distance runners in the world. The AIU’s decision underscores its ongoing commitment to maintaining integrity in athletics by rigorously enforcing anti-doping regulations.
