By Matias Grez, CNN
(CNN) — Ruth Chepngetich, who holds the world record for the women’s marathon, faces a provisional suspension after testing positive for a banned substance, as confirmed by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) on Thursday.
Chepngetich established her record in October 2024, completing the Chicago Marathon in 2:09:56, which broke the previous record by nearly two minutes, making her the first woman to finish a marathon in under 2:10.
According to the AIU’s announcement, Chepngetich’s positive test for Hydrochlorothiazide—a diuretic often prescribed for fluid retention and hypertension—was linked to a sample collected on March 14. This result was disclosed to AIU on April 3. The AIU noted that while levels under 20 ng/mL are deemed negative, Chepngetich’s sample indicated a staggering concentration of approximately 3,800 ng/mL.
Hydrochlorothiazide is classified as a “Specified Substance” under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code. Its use is prohibited at all times, with a standard penalty of two years for violations.
AIU Head Brett Clothier detailed that Chepngetich was informed of the situation in person on April 16, and she cooperated fully with the ongoing investigation. Although she was not initially suspended, she chose to undergo a voluntary provisional suspension beginning on April 19 while the case was investigated further.
As the investigation progressed, the AIU issued a Notice of Charge and implemented a formal provisional suspension. Notably, under current anti-doping regulations, such a suspension isn’t automatically required for positive diuretic tests, given their potential to conceal other banned substances.
Chepngetich retains the right to have her case reviewed by a Disciplinary Tribunal. The AIU has stated it will refrain from additional comments until the investigation reaches a conclusion.
A three-time Chicago Marathon champion, Chepngetich also claimed the gold medal at the 2019 World Athletics Championships.
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