Former Steeplechase World Champion Norah Jeruto Cleared of Doping Charges, Free to Compete in Paris Olympics
Athlete Norah Jeruto has provided evidence of bleeding ulcers and a bout of COVID-19 to explain abnormalities seen in her blood - the primary reason for her doping suspicion - while no banned substances were found in her system. The Athletics Integrity Unit is reviewing the decision and has the option to appeal.
- Norah Jeruto, the former steeplechase world champion, has had her doping charges dismissed due to the lack of evidence and is now allowed to compete in the Paris Olympics.
- The Athletics Integrity Unit, which initially raised the charges, is reviewing the decision and may potentially appeal.
- Jeruto successfully defended herself by explaining that the abnormalities found in her blood were due to a bleeding ulcer complication and a COVID-19 infection.
- While previous blood samples suggested the possibility of a banned transfusion strategy, no banned substances were detected in her system and the AIU could not prove any wrongdoing.
- Jeruto's case underscored the complexity of doping issues and shows the challenges of handling cases with the Athlete Biological Passport, which flags suspicious samples based on blood data over time.
Reuters 