Tokyo Marathon Champion Receives Six-Year Ban After Submitting Forged Medical Documents

Ethiopian distance runner Ruti Aga, the 2019 Tokyo Marathon champion, has been suspended for six years following a positive test for the prohibited steroid methylprednisolone and a subsequent attempt to deceive investigators with fabricated medical evidence.

The 32-year-old tested positive for the glucocorticoid—which is banned in-competition without a valid Therapeutic Use Exemption—after winning a half-marathon in China in March. Aga claimed the substance had been prescribed to treat a knee injury dating back to April 2025.

However, an investigation by the Ethiopian Anti-Doping Authority determined that the prescription she provided originated from a non-existent medical clinic and was authored by a relative who lacked any medical registration. The document was deemed forged.

Aga was charged with three anti-doping rule violations but failed to respond to the charges before the deadline, forfeiting a potential one-year reduction in her sanction for an early admission. Consequently, the ban was imposed without a formal hearing.

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) confirmed on Thursday that the suspension comprises a two-year period for the presence of a prohibited substance and an additional four-year consecutive term for tampering with the investigation process. According to the AIU, Aga attempted to mislead officials during an interview in April and submitted a manipulated document in May.

Ranked 11th in the world at the time of her positive test, Aga also holds four additional top-three finishes at World Marathon Majors events. AIU Chief Executive Brett Clothier stated that the case underscores the organization’s commitment to pursuing athletes who attempt to subvert the anti-doping system.

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