Ruth Chepngetich's world record in the women's marathon remains intact despite her doping ban. The Kenyan athlete set the record in 2024, but failed a doping test five months later. She was banned for three years, yet her record stands due to a clean test post-race.

The Athletics Integrity Unit admitted the situation is unsatisfactory but noted the athlete was legally clean at the time of the record. The World Anti-Doping Agency stated removing her results could breach legal principles. Some suggest a social contract for athletes to accept record loss if caught doping. Read more racing coverage.

Despite the controversy, the Athletics Integrity Unit has caught 317 elite Kenyan athletes since 2017. There are signs of progress, with sponsors funding extra testing and athletes considering stricter contracts to deter doping. Related: Eliud Kipchoge breaks Melbourne Marathon record, wins first race in three years.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from The Guardian Athletics. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.