“To be considered for Team Kenya, athletes must undergo three unannounced out-of-competition tests before August 29.”
Athletics Kenya (AK), in collaboration with the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), has issued a final reminder to all athletes aspiring to represent the country at the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan. The federation emphasizes that strict compliance with anti-doping regulations is a non-negotiable prerequisite for national team selection.
According to World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules, specifically rule 15.5.1(c)(ii), every athlete under Athletics Kenya’s jurisdiction must complete their first no-notice out-of-competition anti-doping test by Saturday, May 24, 2025. Failure to meet this deadline will render athletes ineligible for selection to Team Kenya for the championships.
This stringent measure comes as Kenya remains classified under Category ‘A’ by World Athletics, indicating a high-risk status for doping. Athletes are required to undergo at least three no-notice out-of-competition tests (urine and blood) in the 10 months preceding the competition to ensure credibility and eligibility.
Athletics Kenya has earmarked 444 athletes across the world for mandatory testing ahead of the World Championships. AK President Lt Gen (Rtd) Jack Tuwei urges all athletes to update their whereabouts information and provide accurate details to avoid missed tests.
In addition to testing, athletes are advised to attend mandatory training sessions conducted by ADAK and the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) to familiarize themselves with compliance requirements and avoid any challenges.
Kenya’s intensified anti-doping efforts follow a series of high-profile doping cases among its athletes, including the provisional suspension of marathon runner Brimin Kipkorir after testing positive for banned substances EPO and Furosemide.
Athletics Kenya reiterates its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport and urges all athletes to adhere strictly to the anti-doping regulations to ensure fair play and uphold the country’s reputation on the global stage.
