Kenyan long-distance runner Rhonex Kipruto’s remarkable career has taken a significant hit as he faces the consequences of a doping scandal. Kipruto, known for his outstanding performances, has been stripped of his world record in men’s 10-kilometer road racing and handed a six-year ban.
The decision came after a disciplinary panel examined abnormalities in Kipruto’s blood samples, indicating a sophisticated doping scheme. It was suggested that Kipruto may have received assistance from unidentified third parties. These findings emerged during his pursuit to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics.
In light of what the panel described as “aggravating circumstances,” the ban was extended to six years, surpassing the standard four-year penalty for doping violations. Consequently, Kipruto’s achievements since September 2018 have been nullified, including a world championship bronze medal and his 10k road record.
The void left by Kipruto’s record is anticipated to be filled by Ethiopian athlete Berihu Aregawi, who clocked a time just nine seconds shy of Kipruto’s record.
Despite the absence of banned substances in Kipruto’s system, the case was built upon data from his biological passport, which tracks athletes’ blood samples over time for signs of doping. Kipruto’s defense attempted to attribute the irregularities to illnesses, training habits, and increased alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also questioned the validity of some blood samples presented in the case.
In response to the ruling, Kipruto is contemplating an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. A statement from his legal counsel emphasized that crucial aspects of Kipruto’s health and circumstances were not adequately considered during the proceedings.
This incident adds to a string of doping controversies involving Kenyan distance runners, highlighting the ongoing battle against performance-enhancing drugs in the world of athletics.
