Kenyan long-distance runner Benard Kibet Koech has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for the use of a prohibited substance.
The AIU confirmed that a formal Notice of Charge has been issued against Koech, signaling a serious anti-doping breach.
Koech’s case is one of eight involving Kenyan athletes currently under provisional suspension by the AIU. The suspensions are part of an ongoing effort to uphold the integrity of athletics through strict enforcement of anti-doping regulations.
Benard Kibet is the among the eight Kenyan athletes that have been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit for use of a prohibited substance.
Kenyan long-distance runner Benard Kibet Koech has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for the use of a prohibited substance.
The AIU confirmed that a formal Notice of Charge has been issued against Koech, signaling a serious anti-doping breach.
Koech’s case is one of eight involving Kenyan athletes currently under provisional suspension by the AIU. The suspensions are part of an ongoing effort to uphold the integrity of athletics through strict enforcement of anti-doping regulations.
Among those suspended is Sheila Chelangat, a prominent Kenyan athlete who faces allegations related to the use of Erythropoietin (EPO), a powerful endurance-boosting substance.
Kibiwott Kandie, another elite runner, has been accused of evading or refusing to submit a doping control sample — a serious violation in itself. Ronald Kimeli Kurgat is under scrutiny for the use of triamcinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid sometimes used for performance enhancement.
Sheila Chebet has been cited for the presence of tramadol, a potent painkiller banned in-competition due to its potential for abuse and performance-enhancing effects. Esther Gitahi, previously suspended, is now facing a formal charge for EPO use.
Nancy Jelagat Meto has been flagged for the use of the masking agent furosemide, and her case has been referred to the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK).
Meanwhile, Jackline Wambui remains provisionally suspended pending an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) over a norandrosterone finding.
Provisional suspensions are issued before a final ruling and are mandatory in certain cases under the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules — particularly when a prohibited substance that is not classified as “specified” is detected.
These suspensions act as a precautionary measure, ensuring that athletes suspected of doping are barred from competition while their cases are adjudicated.
The growing number of Kenyan athletes facing suspensions continues to draw global attention to anti-doping enforcement in the East African powerhouse. Kenya has produced many world-class distance runners, but it has also faced repeated scrutiny for doping violations.
As for Benard Kibet Koech, his case will proceed through the AIU’s disciplinary channels. A hearing will determine the outcome, and if the charges are upheld, he could face a ban of up to four years or more, depending on the severity of the violation and whether it constitutes a second offense.
