UPDATE: Ruth Chepngetich’s Marathon World Record Not Affected by Suspension

Although the Kenyan marathon star has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for hydrochlorothiazide—a banned diuretic used as a masking agent—Ruth Chepngetich’s world record set at the 2024 Chicago Marathon remains valid.

Key facts:

• ✅ The sample that led to her suspension was collected on March 14, 2025, several months after her record-breaking 2:09:56 performance in Chicago on October 13, 2024.

• ✅ Chepngetich is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has initiated a disciplinary process, but no final ruling has been made.

At this time, World Athletics has not disqualified any of her past results, including her marathon world record.

The investigation is ongoing. Chepngetich voluntarily suspended herself in April, and the AIU issued a formal provisional suspension on July 17, 2025. Until the case is resolved, she remains barred from competition.

My Best Runs will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as new details emerge.

posted Thursday July 17th
by Boris Baron