Kenyan Marathoner Albert Korir Provisionally Suspended Over Doping
Sports Updated: 12 January 2026 16:29 EAT
Kenyan marathoner Albert Korir
Kenyan marathon champion Albert Korir has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a prohibited substance, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) confirmed on Monday. The suspension bars Korir from all competition pending the outcome of further investigation.
The AIU stated that the positive test relates to Continuous Erythropoietin Receptor Activator (CERA), a banned performance-enhancing substance under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List. CERA is known to boost red blood cell production and enhance endurance.
Korir, 31, is a former New York City Marathon champion and a prominent figure in international marathon running. He also won the 2025 Ottawa Marathon and has consistently placed among the top finishers in major global events.
“This provisional suspension is based on the presence of a prohibited substance,” the AIU said in a statement, adding that the athlete will remain barred from competition until the case is resolved. The governing body did not disclose when or where the sample was collected.
The suspension is the latest in a series of anti-doping cases involving Kenyan endurance athletes. It highlights ongoing efforts by global athletics authorities to enforce anti-doping regulations and maintain the integrity of competitive sport.
Korir’s management has yet to issue a response, and it remains unclear whether he will request a B-sample test or provide an explanation for the positive result. The athlete faces potential sanctions if the violation is confirmed.
The athletics community is closely monitoring developments, with many calling for swift and transparent handling of the case to ensure fairness for both Korir and other competitors.
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FELIX MAKONA
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