Day five of IAAF World Champs overshadowed by Salazar's doping ban

Renowned distance-running coach Alberto Salazar was banned four years for violations including possessing and trafficking testosterone. Photo: Don Ryan/AP

Renowned distance-running coach Alberto Salazar was banned four years for violations including possessing and trafficking testosterone. Photo: Don Ryan/AP

Published Oct 1, 2019

Share

DOHA – Once again, doping is overshadowing the action at the track and field world championships.

Less than 24 hours after renowned distance-running coach Alberto Salazar was banned four years for violations including possessing and trafficking testosterone, two athletes from his team will race in the men's 800-meter final.

Donavan Brazier and Clayton Murphy of the U.S., who have not themselves been accused of any wrongdoing, are among the medal contenders along with Ferguson Rotich of Kenya.

Salazar's credentials for the championships have been revoked and officials are formally notifying his athletes that they are forbidden from working with him.

Also Tuesday, Noah Lyles of the U.S. will battle Canada's Andre de Grasse in the 200 final, while medals are also up for grabs in the men's pole vault and women's javelin.

One of the athletes overseen by Salazar included British four-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Mo Farah. 

The athlete, in a short statement said: "I left the Oregon project (with coach Salazar) in 2017. I have no tolerance for anyone who breaks the rules or crosses the line".

Salazar has said he was "shocked" by the ruling and that he would launch an appeal.

AP

Related Topics: