Ugandan Runner Harbert Kibet Faces Provisional Suspension for Doping Allegations

Ugandan long-distance runner Harbert Kibet is currently facing a provisional suspension from the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) due to allegations of using banned substances. The AIU’s laboratory analysis of a sample provided by the 21-year-old athlete reportedly detected triamcinolone acetonide and exogenous steroids.

This development means Kibet’s case is now subject to the results-management process under the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules. He has been issued a Notice of Allegation, but no final decision has been reached, and he is presumed innocent until proven otherwise. Kibet previously represented Uganda at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Kibet’s situation adds to a growing number of doping cases involving Ugandan athletes. Four other runners, Mercyline Chelangat, Belinda Chemutai, Janat Chemusto, and Peter Maru, are currently serving bans. This trend has sparked renewed concern about the integrity of Uganda’s successful distance-running programs.

Former Olympic champion Stephen Kiprotich has urged for stronger anti-doping education, advocating for awareness campaigns to be delivered directly at athletes’ training camps. He emphasized the importance of relying on natural talent and warned that doping can ruin careers and damage Uganda’s international reputation.

Uganda Athletics national coach Grace Chesang echoed these concerns, noting the potential negative impact on aspiring athletes. She stressed the responsibility of coaches to provide comprehensive education on anti-doping rules and prohibited substances to ensure clean competition.

The AIU has clarified that a provisional suspension is not a definitive sanction. Kibet will have the opportunity to present his case as the proceedings continue, with a final determination pending the completion of the anti-doping process.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/another-ugandan-athlete-kibet-suspended-over-doping-allegation