Controversy Surrounds Beijing Half Marathon: Investigation Launched as 2 Kenyans Deliberately Let Chinese Athlete Win

NAIROBI, Kenya, April 15- Organizers of the Beijing Half Marathon in China have initiated an inquiry into potential race manipulation following allegations that two Kenyan and one Ethiopian runner purposefully allowed China’s He Jie to claim victory in the marathon held on Sunday, April 14.

The decision to investigate was prompted by the emergence of footage showing the three athletes deliberately slowing down to facilitate He Jie’s triumph. He Jie, the gold medalist in the 2023 Asian Games marathon, ultimately crossed the finish line first, celebrating vigorously despite the clear assistance provided by his competitors.

Video evidence depicted the Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes embracing He Jie and offering congratulations after deliberately decelerating as they neared the end of the race. They even gestured for him to overtake them as they approached the finish line.

Organizers stated, “We are conducting an investigation and will disclose the findings to the public once they are concluded.” Additionally, World Athletics revealed that one of the Kenyan athletes involved in intentionally allowing He Jie to win is represented by a Chinese agent.

He Jie’s victory drew criticism from some of his supporters, who expressed concerns that it could tarnish his athletic reputation. A sports commentator suggested that the motivation behind the orchestrated outcome could be financial incentives such as guaranteed race fees for the African athletes or a bonus for facilitating a local runner’s win.

Interestingly, Chinese media celebrated He Jie’s triumph without acknowledging the assistance provided by the three athletes.

While long-distance running competitions are becoming increasingly popular in mainland China, instances of athlete misconduct, such as cheating, continue to undermine the sport’s integrity.