Kenyan marathon star Ruth Chepng’etich has been handed a three-year ban by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for a prohibited substance, Hydrochlorothiazide.

The suspension takes effect from 19 April 2025, with all her results from 14 March 2025 disqualified.

Hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic often used to treat high blood pressure, is banned in athletics because it can act as a masking agent, concealing the use of performance-enhancing substances.

The AIU confirmed the decision through its official channels, marking another high-profile doping case involving a top Kenyan athlete.

Chepng’etich, 30, is one of Kenya’s most accomplished female marathoners. She won the 2019 World Marathon Championships in Doha and has recorded multiple victories at major city marathons, including Chicago and Nagoya, where she set some of the fastest women’s marathon times in history.

The ban deals a major blow to her career and reputation, as she was considered among the favourites for upcoming international events, including the 2025 World Championships.

Under AIU regulations, she will be eligible to return to competition in April 2028, barring any successful appeal or reduction of her sentence.

This latest case adds to growing concern over the rise in doping violations among Kenyan athletes.

The AIU and Athletics Kenya have both reiterated their commitment to clean sport, urging athletes to exercise caution and uphold the integrity that has long defined Kenya’s distance-running legacy.