Three-time World1,500m champion Asbel Kiprop has failed a drug test.
It has been reported that Kiprop, who is also an Olympic champion, tested positive for the banned blood-boosting drug EPO. The sample was taken in an out-of-competition test late in 2007.
Reports by a British newspaper, the Guardian, however, indicate that Kiprop believes there is an error with his sample.
“I have read the reports linking me to doping. As an athlete, I have been at the forefront of the fight against doping in Kenya, a fight I strongly believe in and support. I would not want to ruin all that I have worked for since my first international race in 2007. I hope I can prove that I am a clean athlete in every way possible,” said Kiprop.
The athletes’ agent, Frederico Rosa was also quoted saying he heard the rumors but did not have any other information.
“I need to wait when I know the real story,” he said.
28-year-old Kiprop won world titles in 2011, 2013 and 2015 as well as Olympic gold in 2008.
If confirmed that he failed a doping test, it will be a big blow to the country’s athletes who have been ruling the world especially in medium and long races.