Kenyan long-distance runner Benard Kibet Koech has been banned by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).
“A period of Ineligibility of four (4) years is imposed upon the Athlete for the ADRV, commencing on the date of the Disciplinary Tribunal’s Award,” read the statement.
Kibet, who finished fifth in the men’s 10,000-meter final at the Paris Olympics, was provisionally suspended on June 10, 2025, after the race for suspected doping.
AIU has issued a ban for four years after discrepancies were found in his Athlete Biological Passport (ABP).
ABP is a method used to monitor athletes for indirect signs of performance-enhancing drug use.
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AIU Findings and Disciplinary Decision
According to the Athletics Integrity Unit, investigations into Koech’s biological data revealed abnormal variations that could not be explained by natural physiological changes or legitimate medical treatment.
These irregularities formed the basis of the anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) charge against the athlete.
AIU stated that Koech was allowed to respond to the allegations and present his defense during the disciplinary process. However, after reviewing the evidence, the Disciplinary Tribunal concluded that the abnormalities in his ABP were consistent with prohibited methods or substances.
As a result, the tribunal imposed four years of ineligibility, effectively barring Koech from participating in all national and international competitions. During this period, he is also prohibited from engaging in any official athletic activities, including training with registered clubs or federations.
The ruling further allows for the disqualification of results achieved during the period under investigation, which could affect his recent performances and rankings.
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Kenya’s Continued Battle Against Doping
Kenya, which is renowned worldwide for producing elite distance runners, has faced increased scrutiny from international sports authorities over anti-doping compliance.
Koech’s ban adds to the growing list of Kenyan athletes sanctioned for doping-related violations.
Several high-profile athletes have been handed lengthy bans, denting the country’s reputation on the global stage.
Former Boston Marathon winner Diana Kipyokei received a six-year ban after testing positive for banned substances and attempting to tamper with the investigation.
World Under-20 champion Rhonex Kipruto was also handed a six-year suspension over irregularities in his Athlete Biological Passport.
Former marathon world record holder Wilson Kipsang was banned for four years for whereabouts failures and tampering violations.
Olympic marathon champion Lawrence Cherono was also sanctioned with a lengthy ban. Other athletes, including Michael Saruni, Sarah Chepchirchir, Jackline Wambui, Purity Komen, and Beatrice Toroitich, have also faced suspensions in recent seasons.
According to the Athletics Integrity Unit, Kenya remains among the countries with the highest number of doping-related sanctions globally, accounting for a significant proportion of cases handled since 2017.
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