3-time 1500m world champ Kiprop tests positive for banned substance

Nairobi: Athletics Kenya (AK) and the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) have both confirmed that former Olympic and world 1,500 metres champion Asbel Kiprop tested positive for the banned blood booster erythropoietin (EPO).

AK Vice chairman Barnaba Korir confirmed on Friday that Kiprop tested positive for the banned substance which was discovered after a drugs test in November, reports Xinhua news agency.

Speaking in Nairobi, Korir said they had received a report from the IAAF's Athletics Integrity Unit confirming that the athlete failed his doping test.

A statement from the AIU, an independent body that manages all doping related matters for the IAAF, also dismissed Kiprop's allegations that his urine samples might have been switched.

On February 3, Kiprop was notified of the Adverse Analytical Finding and on February 20, 'B' sample analysis confirmed the findings.

"Kiprop was charged on March 16 with violations of the IAAF Anti-Doping Rules and the matter is currently proceeding before the independent IAAF Disciplinary Tribunal," the AIU said in a statement.

On Thursday, Kiprop claimed his sample was switched by testers. The AIU denied that there had been any foul play concerning Kiprop's sample.

However, the integrity unit admitted that the doping control assistant involved in testing Kiprop, provided the athlete with advanced notice ahead of the testing.

"This is extremely disappointing. The AIU has submitted to the Tribunal that these actions may constitute a departure from the requirements of the International Standard for Testing and Investigations," the AIU said in a statement.

The AIU maintains that that would not have changed the outcome of the test.