World 5000m silver medallist, Mohamed Katir slapped with a two year doping Violation

World 5000m silver medallist, Mohamed Katir of Spain, has been banned for two years by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for Whereabouts Failures, which is a breach of the World Anti-doping rules.

This ruling sidelines him from the much-anticipated Paris Olympic Games and strips his achievements from the records, effective as of October 10, 2023.

AIU has imposed this sanction following Katir’s failure to be present for three anti-doping controls, marking a clear stance against World Anti-doping violations.

The 25 year-old had initially contested the suspension and was to file an appeal but, in a twist that underscores the gravity of the situation, he has since accepted the penalty without appeal, effectively accepting to face the consequences of his actions. This now implies that he will miss the Olympic Games in Paris and his results from October 2023 dismissed.

The Royal Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA) has echoed the AIU’s firm stance, suspending Katir’s athletic license and issuing a statement that underscores their commitment to a clean and fair competition. The president of RFEA, Mr. Raúl Chapado, has been unwavering in his position that Katir would remain ineligible for competition, even if the appeal process were to be pursued, emphasizing the federation’s zero-tolerance policy towards doping.

Katir, who is a double world medalist, had risen to prominence on the international stage, once celebrated as a beacon of athletic excellence, has put his career now in a significant setback.