Leon Baptiste: British Sprint Coach Arrested in Morocco — image accompanying Athletics Weekly's report. Image accompanying Athletics Weekly’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Leon Baptiste, a former British sprint coach and Commonwealth 200m champion, was arrested in Marrakech in May. He is serving a 10-month sentence for sexually assaulting a minor. The UK Foreign Office is supporting the British national detained in Morocco.
Baptiste, 41, had been reported missing by UK Athletics and the athletes he coached. He had been out of contact for over three months. The Morocco Ministry of Justice confirmed his arrest and conviction. Read more racing coverage.
His absence disrupted preparations for the Commonwealth Games and European Championships. Athletes like Charlie Dobson and Zac Shaw were affected. Adam Gemili and Martyn Rooney stepped in to support the athletes. Related: Former British Athletics Coach Jailed in Morocco for Assaulting Minor.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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What should runners know about Leon Baptiste: British Sprint Coach Arrested in Morocco?
Former Commonwealth 200m champion and British sprint coach arrested in May, now serving a 10-month sentence. Leon Baptiste, a former British sprint coach and Commonwealth 200m champion, was arrested in Marrakech in May. He is serving a 10-month sentence for sexually assaulting a minor. The UK Foreign Office is supporting the British national detained in Morocco.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 19, 2026. The underlying Athletics Weekly report was dated August 19, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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