India flagged as “extremely high risk” in doping by World Athletics Integrity Unit

India has been placed in the “extremely high risk” category for doping in athletics (track and field) by the World Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), bringing the country under the strictest level of global anti doping scrutiny in the sport.

The decision, taken under Rule 15 of World Athletics Anti Doping Rules , sees the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) reclassified from Category B to Category A , a status reserved for nations considered to have the highest doping risk in track and field events such as running, jumping, throwing and race walking .

The AIU said India has been a long standing concern, noting that its domestic anti doping system has not kept pace with the scale of violations being reported in athletics. The body also stated that India’s testing and enforcement framework needs stronger reforms to match international standards.

According to AIU data, India recorded 48 anti-doping rule violations in 2022 , 63 in 2023 , 71 in 2024 , and 30 in 2025 based on data available so far, placing it among the top offenders in global athletics. India has also overtaken Kenya to record the highest number of suspended athletes, with 148 Indian athletes currently ineligible due to doping violations in athletics .

AIU Chair David Howman said that while the Athletics Federation of India has supported reform efforts, the progress has not been sufficient. He added that the AIU will now work closely with the AFI to strengthen compliance and protect the integrity of the sport.

Under the new Category A classification , India will face stricter testing rules , including mandatory in competition and out of competition testing, biological passport checks, and compulsory pre-event testing for elite athletes. Athletes selected for major competitions like the Olympics and World Athletics Championships must undergo multiple no notice tests before participation.

The AIU will review each member federation’s category every three years, though changes can be made earlier depending on doping trends and compliance levels.