This archive report was first published on 5 July 2020.
Former world marathon record holder Wilson Kipsang has accused the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) of targeting Kenyans and perpetuating racism through their decisions. He has vowed to appeal the four-year ban handed to him by the AIU.
According to Kipsang, the AIU's decision to ban him is part of a wider scheme to decimate athletics talent in Kenya. He claims that the AIU is dominated by White people who work in cahoots with some officials of Athletics Kenya and Anti-doping Agency of Kenya (Adak).
"How do you explain that each year, Kenyan athletes are accused of doping or missing tests? My ban is still a shock to me but the decision points to a wider conspiracy to ensure Kenyans are removed from global competitions," Kipsang said.
He also alleged that the AIU's decision to ban him was unfair and that he had been cleared by the tribunal in the past. Kipsang stated that he will fight for reforms to the AIU to save Kenyans from further punishment.
When contacted, Athletics Kenya's Barnaba Korir denied any involvement in Kipsang's woes, stating that they do not play any role in the anti-doping process.
Kipsang has ruled out retiring, saying that he will still compete when the ban ends in 2024. He has vowed to fight the unfair ban at the Disciplinary Tribunal and will also appeal the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
