Kenyan Runner Diana Chepkorir Handed Four-Year Ban for Doping Violation

What Led to Diana Chepkorir’s Four-Year Doping Ban?

Kenyan long-distance runner Diana Chepkorir has been handed a four-year suspension by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after her Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) showed evidence of blood doping. The 23-year-old’s samples, taken between June and September 2024, reportedly contained abnormalities linked to the use of a prohibited substance or method.

According to the AIU, the analysis revealed irregular red blood cell patterns typical of artificial enhancement. “The sequence of samples displays an ‘ON’ followed by an ‘OFF’ phase pathognomonic for situations where the red cell mass is artificially increased and the body subsequently downregulates its own red cell production to rebalance the amount of red cells to their normal level,” the agency stated.

Three independent experts reviewed Chepkorir’s ABP results and unanimously concluded that the findings were consistent with “likely doping.” Following their assessment, the AIU declared an Adverse Passport Finding, triggering disciplinary action against the athlete.

Chepkorir, managed by Volare Sports, has denied any wrongdoing. In a statement, she said, “I received your notice with utmost shock and disbelief… I disapprove of any involvement in any anti-doping violation.” Despite her defence, the AIU dismissed her explanation, confirming that all testing was done in WADA-accredited laboratories and that the results were scientifically sound.

What Are the Consequences of Chepkorir’s Suspension?

The AIU confirmed that Chepkorir’s results from June 25, 2024, onward have been nullified, with all associated medals, points, and earnings forfeited. Her provisional suspension took effect on September 15, 2025, after she failed to offer a credible scientific explanation for the irregularities. “The AIU is comfortably satisfied that the Athlete has committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation,” read the decision.

Chepkorir, who last competed at the Boulder 10km in the United States on May 26, still has the right to appeal the ruling before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland.

She began her athletics career as a steeplechase runner in 2016 and has since transitioned into long-distance events. Her ban adds to Kenya’s growing list of doping cases, making her the fourth Kenyan athlete sanctioned by the AIU in the past month, following Roncer Kipkorir Konga, Joyciline Chepngeno, and Charles Kipkurui Langat.

The latest ruling is yet another blow to Kenya’s athletics reputation as global scrutiny over doping intensifies within the sport.

By Yockshard Enyendi