Ruth Chepngetich, the Kenyan marathoner who set the women’s world record in Chicago last October with a time of 2:09:56, has been provisionally suspended following a positive doping test for hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a banned diuretic and masking agent. (The Times)
The Doping Violation
The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) reported that Chepngetich’s urine sample, collected on March 14, 2025, contained HCTZ at a concentration of 3,800 ng/mL—significantly above the World Anti-Doping Agency’s reporting threshold of 20 ng/mL.
HCTZ is prohibited at all times under the World Anti-Doping Code due to its potential to mask the presence of other banned substances.(Talksport, FloTrack)
Timeline of Events
March 14, 2025: Chepngetich provided a urine sample that tested positive for HCTZ.(Sky News)
April 3, 2025: The AIU received the test results.(Athletics Weekly)
April 16, 2025: Chepngetich was notified and interviewed in person by the AIU in Kenya.(Athletics Weekly)
April 19, 2025: Chepngetich voluntarily accepted a provisional suspension while the investigation was ongoing. (Al Jazeera)
July 17, 2025: The AIU issued a formal Notice of Charge and imposed its own provisional suspension. (ABC)
Chepngetich’s Record-Breaking Achievement
In October 2024, Chepngetich made history by becoming the first woman to run a marathon in under 2 hours and 10 minutes, finishing the Chicago Marathon in 2:09:56.
This performance shattered the previous world record by nearly two minutes and marked her third victory in Chicago. (El País, Sky Sports)
Potential Consequences
If found guilty, Chepngetich could face a ban of up to two years under the World Anti-Doping Code.
The AIU has not provided a specific timeline for the disciplinary process.
Chepngetich has the right to a hearing before a Disciplinary Tribunal. (The Times, Sky News, Talksport)
Broader Implications
This case adds to a series of doping controversies involving Kenyan athletes, raising concerns about the integrity of long-distance running.
In April 2023, Athletics Kenya pledged $5 million per year for five years to combat doping in athletics. (ABC)
Conclusion
Ruth Chepngetich’s provisional suspension casts a shadow over her remarkable achievements in marathon running.
As the AIU’s investigation continues, the athletics community awaits further developments in this high-profile case.
