Athletics Kenya has issued a final reminder to athletes aiming to compete at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, later this year.

The announcement, dated Tuesday, May 20, 2025, stresses the mandatory requirement for all athletes to complete their first no-notice out-of-competition anti-doping test by Saturday, May 24, 2025.

“Athletics Kenya is issuing a final reminder to all athletes anticipating participation at the Athletics Kenya Trials for selection to represent the country during the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan,” AK said in a statement.

“All athletes to be selected to represent Kenya in Tokyo this year are required to have completed their first no-notice out-of-competition anti-doping test by the strict deadline of Saturday, May 24, 2025,” it added.

This deadline is non-negotiable, as outlined under rule 15.5.1(c)(ii) of the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules. Athletes who fail to comply will be deemed ineligible for selection to Team Kenya for the championships, a significant blow for those vying for a spot on the global stage.

The reminder targets athletes participating in the upcoming Athletics Kenya Trials, the key event for selecting the national team for Tokyo. Athletics Kenya, headquartered at Riadha House on Douglas Wakiihuri Road in Nairobi West, stressed the importance of adhering to the whereabouts schedules to avoid unsuccessful testing attempts. They provided contact details for support, urging athletes to act promptly with the deadline fast approaching.

Kenya’s proud legacy

Kenya has a storied history in athletics, particularly in middle- and long-distance running. The country has consistently excelled at the World Athletics Championships, making it one of the top-performing nations.

Events like the 3,000m steeplechase and 1,500m have been dominated by Kenyan athletes, with names like Faith Kipyegon, who won the 1,500m at the 2023 Championships in Budapest and the 2024 in Paris, leading the charge.

However, Kenya has also faced scrutiny for doping violations in recent years, with many athletes testing positive. This has led to heightened anti-doping measures to protect the sport’s integrity.

The World Athletics Championships, scheduled for September 13 to September 21, 2025, in Tokyo, will be the 20th edition of the biennial event. Tokyo previously hosted the championships in 1991, where Kenya won four gold medals.