Kenyan runner Josphat Kipkemboi Kemei hit with five-year doping ban

Kenyan long-distance runner Josphat Kipkemboi Kemei has been handed a five-year suspension from athletics for multiple doping violations.

The Athletics Integrity Unit's (AIU) thorough investigation revealed the presence of prohibited substances in Kemei's samples, leading to severe repercussions for the athlete's career.

The violations trace back to April 16, 2023, when Kemei provided a urine sample during an in-competition test in Yangzhou, China. While initially negative, subsequent out-of-competition blood serum samples in 2024 uncovered metabolites of testosterone and Continuous Erythropoietin Receptor Activator (CERA). These substances are banned for their performance-enhancing effects, particularly in endurance sports.

Rodgers Kwemoi handed six-year ban for doping violations

The AIU identified multiple instances of prohibited substance use, deeming the violations serious and frequent. Kemei's defense failed to prove the unintentional nature of these violations, resulting in a standard four-year ban extended by an additional two years due to aggravating circumstances. Nevertheless, Kemei's early admission and acceptance of the charges led to a one-year reduction, culminating in a five-year suspension.

All results achieved by Kemei since April 16, 2023, have been annulled, including the forfeiture of medals, titles, and prize money. This decision reinforces the AIU's dedication to a drug-free sport and emphasizes the consequences of doping.