Ethiopian long-distance runner Gudaf Tsegay suspended for four months after doping finding

Tsegay is one of the most successful long-distance runners of her generation. At the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo, she won bronze in the 5,000 metres. Tsegay became world champion in the 5,000 m in 2022 and won the world title in the 10,000 metres a year later.

Career and previous achievements

The suspension is comparatively short at four months. This is due to the retroactive recognition of the medical necessity by the world federation. Athletes can receive an exemption from the World Anti-Doping Agency if therapeutic use is proven, but this was not granted in this case.

The independent integrity unit of World Athletics is responsible for imposing such sanctions. It reviews violations of anti-doping regulations and issues bans. The four-month suspension now imposed marks another case in Ethiopian long-distance running, which has repeatedly been affected by doping cases in the past.

Consequences and outlook

Tsegay is therefore expected to be able to return to competition only at the beginning of October 2026. As a result, she will miss the bulk of the summer season and important international meetings. Whether and when she can take part in upcoming major events will depend on her continued athletic form and any possible further proceedings.

The news was distributed via the dpa news channel: © dpa-infocom, dpa:260612-930-214628/1 This is a news item directly from the dpa news channel. The suspension is part of ongoing efforts by anti-doping authorities to preserve the integrity of long-distance running and to consistently punish violations.