Marathon World record holder Chepng’etich suspended over diuretic use
The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has provisionally suspended marathon world record-holder Ruth Chepng’etich after detecting a prohibited substance in a sample collected on 14 March.
The Kenyan star faces charges related to the presence of Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a banned diuretic known for its masking capabilities.
The AIU reported a concentration of 3800 ng/mL in Chepng’etich’s urine, prompting an investigation that began in April.
AIU Head Brett Clothier confirmed that Chepng’etich was personally notified and interviewed in Kenya on 16 April, cooperating fully with officials.
‘Although provisional suspension isn’t mandatory in such cases, Chepng’etich voluntarily accepted one on 19 April while investigations continued,’ said Clothier. ‘Now, based on our findings, a formal Notice of Charge has been issued and provisional suspension is in effect.’
HCTZ, commonly used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention, falls under the WADA Code’s S5 category: Diuretics and Masking Agents.
The AIU emphasized that diuretics may conceal other banned substances, making them strictly prohibited at all times.
Chepng’etich now has the right to appeal and present her case before a Disciplinary Tribunal. Further AIU statements will only follow the tribunal’s resolution.
