2021 New York Marathon Winner Banned for Doping

Kenyan runner Albert Korir suspended for 5 years after admitting to performance-enhancing drug use.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 4:53pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion of a marathon runner in a cubist style, using bold primary colors to convey the disruption caused by doping violations in the sport.A cubist interpretation of a marathon runner's stride, reflecting the fractured nature of doping scandals that continue to undermine the sport.NYC Today

Albert Korir, the winner of the 2021 New York City Marathon, has been banned from competition for 5 years after admitting to using performance-enhancing drugs. The Kenyan runner's doping violation was announced by the Athletics Integrity Unit, the independent anti-doping watchdog for track and field.

Why it matters

Doping scandals continue to plague the sport of marathon running, undermining the integrity of major events like the New York City Marathon. Korir's ban is the latest high-profile case and raises further questions about the effectiveness of anti-doping efforts in long-distance running.

The details

According to the Athletics Integrity Unit, Korir tested positive for a prohibited substance following his victory at the 2021 New York City Marathon. The 28-year-old Kenyan runner later admitted to the doping violation and accepted a 5-year ban from all World Athletics sanctioned events.

  • Korir won the 2021 New York City Marathon on November 7, 2021.
  • He was banned from competition on March 30, 2026 for a 5-year period.

The players

Albert Korir

The Kenyan runner who won the 2021 New York City Marathon but was later banned for 5 years after admitting to a doping violation.

Athletics Integrity Unit

The independent anti-doping watchdog for track and field that announced Korir's 5-year ban.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Doping has no place in our sport and the Athletics Integrity Unit will continue to pursue those who cheat the system and undermine the integrity of athletics.”

— Brett Clothier, Head of the Athletics Integrity Unit

What’s next

Korir's 5-year ban will prevent him from competing in any World Athletics sanctioned events until 2031.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing battle against doping in long-distance running, where elite athletes continue to seek unfair advantages despite the severe penalties. It underscores the need for rigorous testing and strong enforcement to protect the integrity of major marathons.