Ronald Korir provisionally suspended for suspected doping

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has provisionally suspended Kenyan marathoner Ronald Kipkoech Korir following irregularities in his Athlete Biological Passport (ABP). The ABP monitors biological markers over time, and officials identified patterns suggesting the potential use of a prohibited substance or method.

Korir is a prominent long-distance runner, notably finishing fourth at the 2023 Berlin Marathon with a time of 2:04:22 and fourth at the 2024 Hamburg Marathon. The provisional suspension prevents him from competing in sanctioned events while a full investigation is conducted.

This case occurs amid heightened scrutiny of Kenya’s anti-doping efforts. Since 2017, approximately 140 Kenyan athletes have faced suspensions or bans from the AIU. World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President Witold Banka has previously called for the strengthening of Kenya’s anti-doping framework, particularly as the nation prepares to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships in Nairobi.