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AIU designates India as 'extremely high' doping risk; AFI moves to Category A under World Athletics rules

Updated April 20, 2026 at 02:19 PM

On April 20, 2026, the Athletics Integrity Unit Board designated India as an 'extremely high' risk country for doping and re-categorised the Athletics Federation of India from Category B to Category A. India had been among the top countries for anti-doping rule violations in 2022–2025, with 48, 63, 71 and 30 ADRVs respectively, and has 148 suspended athletes, surpassing Kenya on the AIU's ineligible list. The decision triggers stricter testing and oversight for Indian athletes under Category A rules.

Why It Matters

The designation tightens anti-doping oversight for Indian athletes and signals intensified reforms and monitoring of domestic anti-doping structures.

Timeline

5 Events

AIU designates India as extremely high doping risk; AFI moves to Category A

April 20, 2026

The Athletics Integrity Unit Board designates India as an 'extremely high' risk for doping and re-categorises the Athletics Federation of India from Category B to Category A under Rule 15. The AIU says Category A requires a more stringent testing programme and oversight. Additionally, India has surpassed Kenya to top the AIU's list of ineligible persons with 148 suspended athletes.