Indian Long-Distance Runner Archana Jadhav Banned for Four Years Over Doping Violation

Indian long-distance runner Archana Jadhav has been handed a four-year ban by World Athletics’ Athletes Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for a banned substance, Oxandrolone. The decision, which came into effect on January 7, 2025, follows her failure to contest the doping charges despite multiple reminders.

Doping Violation and AIU Investigation

Positive Test Result at Pune Half-Marathon

Archana Jadhav’s sample was collected during the Pune Half-Marathon in December 2024 and later tested positive for Oxandrolone. This substance, a synthetic anabolic steroid, is commonly used to enhance muscle growth and increase protein production.

The test results led to her provisional suspension, effective January 7, 2025. Despite repeated notices, she did not contest the findings, leading the AIU to consider this as an acceptance of guilt.

Lack of Response to AIU and AFI Notices

• On February 25, 2025, Jadhav responded to the AIU’s violation charge with an email stating:
  “I am extremely sorry sir… I welcome your decision.”
• AIU took this as an indication that she did not wish to challenge the findings or request a formal hearing.
• She was given until March 3, 2025, to confirm whether she admitted to the Anti-Doping Rule Violation, but she did not respond further.

Consequences of the Ban

Disqualification and Loss of Achievements

• The four-year ban starts from January 7, 2025.
• All her results since December 15, 2024, have been disqualified.
• She must forfeit all medals, awards, points, prizes, and appearance money earned during the disqualified period.

Failure to Exercise Right to ‘B’ Sample Test

• Initially, Jadhav expressed a desire to test her ‘B’ sample but failed to follow through.
• She missed the January 17 deadline to confirm and pay the necessary fee.
• AIU extended the deadline to January 24, but she failed to respond.

Jadhav’s Past Achievements

Before her suspension, Jadhav was a rising star in Indian distance running.

Notable Performances

• Delhi Half Marathon (October 2024) – Finished 4th in the elite Indian women’s race (1:20.21).
• Personal Bests:

1. 10,000m: 35:44.26
2. Half Marathon: 1:20:21
3. 3,000m: 10:28.82

Submission of Negative Drug Tests

Jadhav had submitted negative test results from Agilus Diagnostics, but these were deemed insufficient to overturn the doping violation.

Summary of the News