Seb Coe, the president of World Athletics, has come out in defense of Ruth Chepng’etich’s marathon world record, addressing the skepticism and doping accusations that followed her remarkable performance at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. Chepng’etich became the first woman in history to run a marathon in under 2:10, clocking an impressive time of 2:09:56. However, her achievement was met with a wave of doubt, with some questioning the authenticity of her success.
During a press conference held at the Riadha House in Nairobi, Kenya, Seb Coe acknowledged the ongoing scrutiny athletes face, particularly when they break world records. He pointed out that such doubts have always been part of athletics, dating back to his own career when he was an elite-level competitor. Coe, who broke 12 world records during his time as an athlete, recounted how each of his accomplishments was met with similar conjecture and skepticism.
“I was an elite-level competitor, I broke 12 world records, and every time I broke them, there was conjecture,” Coe explained. “It’s inevitable. I don’t think this is unique to this year. People have always questioned great athletes.” He reflected on his own experience, noting that even when he shaved nearly half a second off the 800m world record a feat that stood for 18 years there were constant rumors and doubts surrounding the achievement.
Coe attributed the public’s reaction to a general tendency to question extraordinary performances, regardless of the athlete’s efforts or the integrity of the competition. He emphasized that this type of skepticism is not new, and while it is disheartening, it is something athletes have always had to deal with.
In response to the doping concerns raised about Chepng’etich’s world record, Coe highlighted the stringent measures that have been implemented by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) to ensure that athletes are clean. He stressed that athletes in countries categorized as “Category A” are subjected to frequent and rigorous testing. These athletes are tested more often than those in other categories, reducing the likelihood of doping going undetected.
The AIU has played a critical role in ensuring the integrity of the sport by putting more structured and purposeful measures in place to monitor athletes. Coe noted that such steps have never been taken before and that, as a result, athletes are tested more regularly, especially ahead of major championships. He reaffirmed his confidence in the system, stating that athletes who break world records in the elite group are probably being tested more than ever.
Despite the advancements in anti-doping measures, Coe acknowledged that it remains difficult to defend athletes from public scrutiny. He called for more trust in the testing procedures and emphasized that athletes like Chepng’etich, who are subject to rigorous testing and are registered in the testing pool, should be recognized for their extraordinary achievements rather than being doubted.
“It’s unfortunate that such doubts continue to linger, even though the sport has evolved and the relevant authorities have made great strides,” Coe said. “I genuinely believe that when an athlete breaks a world record in the elite group, they are probably being tested more.” He added that the AIU’s structured approach to testing is a positive step forward for the sport, and it is essential for the public to place more confidence in the system and the athletes themselves.
While the public’s skepticism about world records is a longstanding issue in athletics, Coe remains steadfast in defending the integrity of elite athletes. He emphasized that the sport has evolved significantly, and the efforts of organizations like the AIU ensure that athletes are tested in a thorough and transparent manner. He concluded by stressing the importance of celebrating great performances rather than clouding them with doubt.
In the face of criticism and doubt, Seb Coe’s defense of Ruth Chepng’etich’s marathon world record serves as a reminder that the path to greatness is often filled with scrutiny, but it is the athletes’ unwavering commitment and the robust anti-doping measures that should stand as the true measure of their success.
