Spanish athlete Mo Katir was provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after failing to appear for three doping tests in the last year. He is the current world runner-up in the 5,000 meters.
In a statement reported by AFP, Katir reported the sanction he received from the authorities:
Today the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has informed me of a provisional suspension due to what it considers a violation of the rules derived from three location failures in the last twelve months. During the disciplinary procedure, AIU has agreed to my provisional suspension.
The athlete added that he will appeal the suspension and asked that "the right to the presumption of my innocence be respected until the corresponding procedure is processed and concluded."
After learning of the athlete's provisional suspension, the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA) decided to withdraw Katir's official license until the final resolution of his case is determined:
Regarding the actions that the athlete may take to defend their interests, the RFEA will remain attentive to the decisions adopted by the competent authorities.
