The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has banned Kenyan long-distance runner Brian Kipsang for two years after he tested positive for a banned substance during the Rome Marathon on March 16, 2025.
The AIU officially announced the sanction on May 5, 2025, confirming that Kipsang tested positive for Triamcinolone acetonide, a glucocorticoid prohibited in-competition without a valid Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE). The 30-year-old marathoner, who finished second in the Rome event on March 16, admitted to the anti-doping rule violation and accepted the consequences.
According to the AIU’s decision, Kipsang did not request a B sample analysis and confessed to using the prohibited substance. However, the integrity body noted there was no evidence of intentional doping, which meant he faced the mandatory two-year suspension instead of a potential four-year sanction under World Athletics’ anti-doping rules.
As a result, the AIU has declared Kipsang ineligible to compete in any World Athletics event until May 1, 2027. Additionally, all his results, medals, points, and prizes earned from March 16, 2025, have been disqualified.
The case adds to the growing list of doping violations involving Kenyan athletes. The AIU reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of athletics through rigorous testing and enforcement.
In a recent report by Chase Athletics, Victor Ashiali, from the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), urged local athletes to exercise extreme caution regarding supplements and medications.
“You should be careful about the supplements you buy and consume. In fact, it’s advisable to stay away from them because of how the market is unregulated,” said Ashiali.
He emphasized the dangers of self-medication and using non-prescription drugs without consulting medical professionals, adding.
“Most prohibited substances are found in common drugs. Athletes must always declare their status when seeking medical attention.”
Ashiali made the remarks during a refresher course for Kenyan athletes preparing for the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China, scheduled for May 10-11.
Kenya faces rising doping scandals, drawing global scrutiny and demands for tougher regulations and awareness to safeguard its athletic reputation.
The AIU confirmed that its decision in Kipsang’s case remains open to appeal by either the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) or ADAK through the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
