Marathon World Record Holder Ruth Chepng’etich Provisionally Suspended

Women’s marathon world record holder Ruth Chepng’etich has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), following a positive test for the dieuretic hydrochlorothiazide.

Chepng’etich, who set the marathon world record last fall in Chicago and shattered the 2:10 marathon time barrier for women, tested positive for the diuretic following an out-of-competition test on March 14, 2025. Chepng’etich was interviewed about that test in mid-April and accepted an initial provisional suspension the following day, ruling her out of competing at the London Marathon.

According to AIU Brett Clothier, “When there is a positive test for diuretics and masking agents, a provisional suspension is not mandatory under the World Anti-Doping Code. Chepng’etich was not provisionally suspended by the AIU at the time of notification, however, on 19 April, she opted for a voluntary provisional suspension while the AIU’s investigation was ongoing.”

With the AIU’s investigation concluded, they have formally announced the suspension and notice of charge.

Hydrochlorothiazide, or HCTZ, is a diuretic that is traditionally used to treat hypertension and fluid retention. It is a specified substance under the WADA Code. Its use is prohibited at all times, as the diuretic can be abused for the purposes of masking other prohibited substance usage in urine.

The AIU charges that Chepng’etich’s urine tested positive at a rate of 3800ng/mL — 190 times higher than the negative testing level.

As a specified substance, a full suspension is a two year ban from sport. Chepng’etich is entitled to a disciplinary hearing and appeal. The AIU announced they will not comment further on the case until it is concluded.

Chepng’etich is one of the most highly decorated female runners of the modern era, having won the Chicago Marathon three times, as well as the 2019 World Championships. She broke both the 2:11 and 2:10 barriers for women. She also currently holds the sixth fastest women’s half marathon, in 1:04:02, run in Istanbul in 2021.

Following her world record run in Chicago last year, Chepng’etich was asked directly about doping accusations. The Kenyan National Assembly at the time called the line of questioning “disrespectful.”