DOPING: Why fifth Ugandan Athlete Kibet faces suspension

What the report says

Ugandan long-distance runner Herbert Kibet has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit, according to The Independent Uganda, after an anti-doping sample reportedly showed the presence of triamcinolone acetonide and exogenous steroids. The report says the case is being handled under World Athletics anti-doping rules and remains open, with the AIU issuing a notice of allegation rather than a final finding. That means Kibet is not yet formally found guilty, and the matter will continue through the results-management process.

The newspaper reported that Kibet is 21 and competed for Uganda at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. It also noted his February 2026 victory in the 10-kilometre Facsa Castellón race in Spain, where he recorded 26:39 and was described as having ranked among the fastest road 10K performances on record at the time.

Kibet’s suspension adds to a growing doping problem in Ugandan athletics. The Independent Uganda said four other Ugandan athletes are already serving bans: Mercyline Chelangat, Belinda Chemutai, Janat Chemusto and Peter Maru. Former Olympic marathon champion Stephen Kiprotich and Uganda Athletics coach Grace Chesang were quoted warning that repeated cases could damage the country’s reputation and discourage younger athletes.

More broadly, the case highlights how anti-doping authorities use provisional suspensions while investigations are ongoing. As a general background point, such measures are meant to protect competition integrity without replacing a final disciplinary decision.