Doping Dilemma Tarnishes African Prestige in Distance Running as 270 Athletes Face Suspension Since 2015

In the realm of athletics, the runners from the land of cheetahs and gazelles always secured the prime spot. The African runners from Kenya and Ethiopia are celebrated as the powerhouse of long-distance running.

However, even after frequently dominating the international platform with their power-packed performance, their triumph has been overshadowed by the doping scandals. The numbers are rising with every passing day, threatening the continent’s remarkable legacy. 

Long-distance running doping quandary of Kenyan athletes

Acquiring the title of the ‘Home of Champions”, Kenya has always been a dominant force in the realm of long-distance running. But within the period of 8 years, from 2015 and late 2023, the total of athletes from Kenya expelled from competitions amounts to 270. 

The number in 2022 alone is 27, denoting the Kenyan runners suspended for doping offenses. In an interview with the New York Times, the chairman of youth development for the Kenyan athletics federation, Korir said, “When you start doing those negative things, the heart comes to say: ‘Have I been wrong in believing that these people are unique? Was I wrong in believing in the running?’”

There are big names on the list, including Asbel Kiprop, Rita Jeptoo, Jemima Sumgong. On October 16, Kenyan marathon runner, Titus Ekiru was suspended for doping undergoing a 10-year ban by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

Brewing doping storm in Ethiopia

As Kenya shares its borders with the other country, Ethiopia the doping crisis has entered the nation as well. Based on the information provided by Athletics Illustrated, being exposed to the scandal, the Ethiopian Anti-Doping Authority presented the data of seven Ethiopian athletes undergoing investigation for breaching doping rules.

Read More: 100m World Record Holder Provisionally Suspended After Doping Violations

As the continent is looking toward the verdict owing to the damage imposed on Ethiopian distance running, erythropoietin (EPO) is the substance that athletes take as a performance-boosting drug that is banned on the list provided by the World Anti-Doing Agency.

The neighboring countries of Kenya and Ethiopia hold 72 of the top 100 positions in the men’s category and 67 in the female’s category. However, both countries have been exposed to the perils of doping. To persist in their spot for a longer period, stricter penalties and increased testing are essential components in preserving their reputation.

As African countries grapple to safeguard their prestige in the world of distance running, the fight against doping is a collective effort. It is only with the collaboration between the athletes, authorities, and anti-doping agencies that their running prowess will be able to make a positive and long-term impact on the world.  

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