The world of athletics is facing a major scandal as former steeplechase world champion Norah Jeruto faces a doping case hearing in June, just five weeks before the Paris Olympics kick off. This comes after World Athletics appealed a ruling by the Athletics Integrity Unit that cleared Jeruto of suspected blood doping in 2022.
Jeruto, who represented Kazakhstan, had won gold in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at the 2022 world championships in Eugene, Oregon. However, she was suspended during an investigation and could not defend her title last year. The independent tribunal evaluating the case determined that there was sufficient doubt in her defense to clear her of the doping allegations.
Despite not testing positive for any banned substances, Jeruto’s blood test results in 2020 and 2021 were found to be irregular. She claimed that ulcers and a bout of COVID-19 could explain these abnormalities. Experts testified that Jeruto’s ulcers could have caused internal bleeding, accounting for the irregular blood test results. There was no evidence to support the claim that she had received any transfusions.
Jeruto went on to become the African champion and win on the Diamond League circuit in 2021. With the Paris Olympics scheduled to take place from August 6-8, there is a possibility of an urgent CAS verdict before the women’s steeplechase event. Jeruto’s eligibility to compete in the Games will likely be determined by the outcome of the hearing in June.
The news of this hearing has sparked controversy and concern within the athletic community as it calls into question how effectively current anti-doping measures are working. It also highlights how important it is for athletes to maintain their integrity and adhere to strict regulations to ensure fair competition for all athletes.
As we move closer to the Paris Olympics, it will be interesting to see what happens with this case and how it affects Jeruto’s eligibility to compete on one of sports biggest stages.