Blow to Kenyan athletics as AIU suspends marathoner Matthew Samperu
Kenya’s athletics reputation has taken another hit as marathoner Matthew Samperu has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for a prohibited substance, testosterone.
The suspension, announced on Monday, 26 January 2026, adds Samperu to a growing list of Kenyan athletes caught in doping cases.
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“The AIU has provisionally suspended Mathew Samperu (Kenya) for Presence/Use of a Prohibited Substance (Testosterone) “AIU noted.
Provisional suspension explained
A provisional suspension temporarily bars an athlete from participating in any competition or athletics-related activity while a full investigation is conducted. It is a precautionary measure under the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules and the Integrity Code of Conduct.
Officials emphasise that this step does not imply guilt but is intended to safeguard the integrity of the sport during the investigation.
Samperu, currently ranked 247th in the men’s marathon according to World Athletics, has had notable performances, including a 1:00:27 finish at the Istanbul Half Marathon in April 2024 and a 2:07:25 marathon in Sevilla, Spain, in 2025.
The 31-year-old won at the 2022 Kip Keino Classic, posting a time of 28:56.07 during the 10,000m marathon.
His suspension comes amid a series of high-profile doping cases among Kenyan athletes, raising concerns about the nation’s sporting reputation.
A pattern of doping cases
Kenya has seen several athletes face provisional suspensions or bans in recent months.
Marathoner Albert Korir tested positive for CERA, Hillary Kipchirchir Chepkwony had an ABP-related violation, Diana Chepkorir faced an ABP suspension, Morine Gesare Michira tested positive for higenamine and octodrine, and Brian Limo was the latest athlete to be banned on Monday, 26 January 2026, after testing positive for salbutamol and facing tampering charges.
The 23-year-old long-distance athlete provided a urine Sample In-Competition at the ‘Drammen 10K-5K’ held in Drammen, Norway, which was given code 1587509.
These incidents have placed Kenya’s athletics under international attention, especially as the country continues to produce world-class runners. Samperu’s suspension is significant given his recent performances and highlights the AIU’s strict enforcement of anti-doping rules.
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William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
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