By Thathe Msimango
Davor Savija, the owner of Ikaika sports agency management, is ready to go to battle on behalf of his client, Rhonex Kipruto, who is facing allegations of doping.
In an exclusive interview with Scrolla.Africa, Savija expressed his frustration.
“My client is an immaculate athlete, and it’s highly suspicious that they are raising issues from nearly four years ago. I’ve known Rhonex for years, and I trust his testimony,” he said.
Kipruto, the current world record holder in the 10,000 metres with an amazing time of 26:24 set in the Valencia 10k race in 2020, has been charged by the Athletics Integrity Unit with “use of a prohibited substance or method” based on inconsistencies found in his biological passport between July 2018 and March 2022.
The Kenyan athlete, who also claimed a bronze medal in the 2019 World Athletics Championship in Doha, could potentially face a four-year ban if found guilty.
Savija, who manages a stable of world-class athletes, including Violah Cheptoo, the 2021 New York Marathon runner-up, and Sheila Chepkirui, who finished fourth in the 2023 London Marathon, strongly believes that Kipruto has been subjected to an unjust ruling.
Savija stated that Kipruto is a hard worker and a natural winner.
“We all recognise that his talent is unparalleled. He has been at the top of his game for years. I’m devastated by the treatment he has received, and I feel sorry for him. He is heartbroken, and he doesn’t deserve any of this,” said Savija.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Kipruto has continued to display exceptional form this year. He secured fourth place in the Lisbon Half Marathon, clocking an impressive time of 59:22.
Additionally, he posted a commendable 27:12 during the Adizero Adidas Invitational meeting in Germany last month.
“We are willing to repay all the money earned through Kipruto’s invitations if he is indeed found guilty. I’m stating this because I firmly believe in his innocence,” said Savija.
“We have invested significant funds in this case, and we will not give up. Ultimately, I am determined to secure a favourable outcome for him.”
If Kipruto is found guilty, he will join the extensive list of 65 Kenyan athletes currently serving bans for doping offences.
This roster includes Diana Kipyokei, 2021 Boston Marathon champion, who received a six-year ban for using the prohibited substance triamcinolone acetonide, and Purity Rionoripo, winner of the 2017 Paris Marathon, who was banned for five years after testing positive for the banned diuretic furosemide.
Pictured above: Rhonex Kipruto
Image source: Pinecrest
