World Record Holder Ruth Chepngetich Provisionally Suspended for Doping

Ruth Chepngetich, has been provisionally suspended by the AIU after a banned diuretic was found in her system. Discover the details of the positive test and what this means for one of athletics' brightest stars.

Brenda Ochieng'
July 18, 2025

Ruth Chepngetich Picture by Getty Images

Kenyan marathon superstar and current women’s world record holder, Ruth Chepngetich, has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) following the detection of a prohibited substance in her system. This news sends shockwaves through a sport already grappling with questions of integrity, casting a shadow over one of its most celebrated recent achievements.
According to an official statement released by the AIU, a sample collected from Chepngetich on March 14 tested positive for hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). This substance, a diuretic, is strictly prohibited at all times under the stringent World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code. While HCTZ is commonly prescribed for medical conditions such as hypertension and fluid retention, its presence in an athlete's system raises red flags due to its classification as a potential "masking agent"—a substance that can obscure the presence of other, more potent performance-enhancing drugs.
The specifics of Chepngetich’s positive test are particularly concerning. Her sample revealed an HCTZ concentration of 3,800 nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL), a figure that dramatically exceeds the reporting threshold of 20 ng/mL. Such a high concentration typically indicates more than accidental exposure, suggesting a deliberate intake of the substance.
This provisional suspension comes just months after Chepngetich, a formidable force in long-distance running, made global headlines in October 2024. At the prestigious Chicago Marathon, the 30-year-old athlete delivered an absolutely stunning performance, shattering the women’s marathon world record with an incredible time of 2:09:56. Her achievement was monumental, surpassing the previous record, held by Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa from the 2023 Berlin Marathon, by nearly two minutes – a significant margin in elite marathon running.
Upon being notified of her adverse analytical finding on April 16, Chepngetich was initially not subject to an immediate mandatory suspension. However, just three days later, she voluntarily accepted a provisional suspension as the AIU's investigation into the matter commenced. AIU Head Brett Clothier confirmed the progression of the case: "In the intervening months, the AIU continued its investigation and has now issued a formal Notice of Charge, alongside enforcing a provisional suspension." The case remains under active review, with further proceedings expected to unfold as the AIU continues its rigorous process.

About the Author

Brenda Ochieng'

Brenda Ochieng'

Brenda Ochieng' is a passionate storyteller and film enthusiast. With a background in film and video production and she brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to her work. As a dedicated blogger, Brenda loves sharing insights on production techniques, blogging, and the art of storytelling. She is also a skilled editor and communicator, bringing a fresh perspective to her writing. Join Brenda as she delves into the captivating world of entertainment and news, sharing her knowledge and passion with you.

Share this article

More Articles You Might Like

Teams Arrive for Historic CHAN 2024 as Uganda Kicks Off the Countdown to AFCON 2027
Sports

Teams Arrive for Historic CHAN 2024 as Uganda Kicks Off the Countdown to AFCON 2027

The TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 has officially begun its countdown, with the first teams arriving in Uganda. The excitement is palpable for a tournament that showcases local talent and a crucial dress rehearsal for the three East African host nations—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—ahead of the momentous 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

3 days ago
Burna Boy Graces Lionesses' EURO 2025 Homecoming!
Sports

Burna Boy Graces Lionesses' EURO 2025 Homecoming!

England Lionesses fans witnessed an unexpected and joyful side of coach Sarina Wiegman during the EURO 2025 homecoming parade in London. A surprise performance by Nigerian superstar Burna Boy, one of Wiegman's favorite artists, led to an unforgettable moment of singing and dancing, captivating 65,000 adoring fans and the victorious squad in front of Buckingham Palace.

4 days ago
FIFA Inaugurates Landmark Africa Office in Morocco, Signaling a New Era
Sports

FIFA Inaugurates Landmark Africa Office in Morocco, Signaling a New Era

FIFA has opened its dedicated Africa Office in Morocco, with President Gianni Infantino declaring, "The future of African football starts here." This strategic agreement underscores FIFA's commitment to nurturing the continent's immense talent, capitalizing on Morocco's surging football success and infrastructure, and setting the stage for Africa's undeniable rise on the global football map.

6 days ago