Kenyan long-distance runner Albert Korir, the 2021 New York City Marathon champion, has been handed a five-year ban after admitting to the use of a prohibited performance-enhancing substance, the Athletics Integrity Unit said Monday.
The Athletics Integrity Unit said Korir received a reduced sanction from an initial six-year ban due to his early admission and acceptance of the penalty.
Korir, 32, tested positive for a synthetic form of erythropoietin, a substance known to boost red blood cell production and enhance endurance. The sample was collected during an out-of-competition test conducted in Kenya in October.
His suspension took effect on 8 January and will run through 7 January 2031.
Career and doping concerns
Korir rose to global prominence after winning the 2021 New York City Marathon with a time of 2:08:22. He later secured a third-place finish in 2023, clocking a personal best time of 2:06:57.
He also claimed victories at the Ottawa Marathon in 2019 and 2025, cementing his reputation as one of Kenya top distance runners.
However, the doping violation now casts a shadow over his achievements and sidelines him during a crucial stage of his career.
Korir case adds to a growing list of doping sanctions involving Kenyan athletes. The country has faced increased scrutiny over integrity issues in distance running.
In a separate case, marathon world record holder Ruth Chepngetich received a three-year ban after admitting the use of hydrochlorothiazide, a banned masking agent.
Kenya has been working to restore credibility following a series of doping scandals that intensified around the 2016 Rio Olympics, when the country was declared noncompliant by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Since then, more than 140 Kenyan athletes mainly long-distance runners have been sanctioned for doping offences.
In June 2024, authorities issued the country first lifetime ban to marathon runner Beatrice Toroitich, while 10km record holder Rhonex Kipruto received a six-year suspension.
