Sabastian Sawe: Adidas Pump Millions into Enhanced Anti-Doping Testing for Second Straight Year

Reigning London Marathon champion Sabastian Sawe will once again undergo the rigorous testing process he had last year, an unprecedented 25 out-of-competition drug tests, as he looks to threaten the late Kelvin Kiptum's world record again.

Following news that Ruth Chepng’etich had been suspended for testing positive for a banned substance, the running world was left disappointed and frustrated.

For fellow Kenyan Sabastian Sawe, it was a sign of challenges to come since he knew their shared nationality would cast a shadow of doubt over his performance.

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At the time, Sabastian Sawe was preparing for his own world record attempt at the Berlin Marathon. Kenya currently has over 140 athletes suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for doping violations, and another world-class time from a Kenyan runner was sure to be met with scepticism.

"We knew that (clean) Kenyan athletes and their performances would be under even more suspicion, and to no fault of their own," Sabastian Sawe’s agent Eric Lilot explained to LetsRun.com.

"We both felt and agreed that we needed to confront the issue of doping... We not only wanted to fight doping, but just as importantly, we wanted to help support the cause for clean athletes."

Looking ahead, Adidas will again contribute $50,000 (Ksh 6.5 million) in 2026 to fund an enhanced anti-doping program for Sabasian Sawe, a commitment that will continue for the duration of his contract.

The reigning Berlin Marathon champion remains open to any measures the AIU proposes. For 2026, the enhanced testing will be spread throughout the year rather than concentrated in two months. "This is what we believe is a more sustainable way of doing it," Clothier concluded.

Sabastian Sawe is not only focused on winning races but also on proving that success at the highest level of sport can be achieved cleanly.

His efforts are part of a broader battle against doping, a fight he feels is far from over despite his significant 2:02:16 victory in Berlin.

"[Berlin] helped a little," Sawe acknowledged. "But it was by no means enough. I will be honest. If it were not for the hot weather in Berlin, we might have seen a really important result, and then we would have better understood if people really believed in what I am doing or if they would still have doubts."

Despite his groundbreaking performances, Sabastian Sawe continues to face online scepticism. While he accepts that he cannot change everyone's mind, he urges critics to remain open-minded.

"I cannot worry about every individual who hides behind a computer," Sawe stated. "I also feel everyone is entitled to their opinion, but what upsets me is when people who have no idea of how we train, how hard we work, or what we are capable of, still accuse me, my training partners, or my coach, without any proof or understanding whatsoever."

A significant hurdle is the cost of comprehensive testing. To achieve World Athletics Label status, road races must contribute annually to the AIU, with fees ranging from $2,000 to $50,000.

Since 2019, major brands like Nike, Adidas, and Asics have also funded the AIU's Road Running Integrity Program, with On joining the effort in 2025.

While grateful for the support, AIU head Brett Clothier argues that more funding is essential to effectively combat doping. A single drug test can cost over $2,000.

In 2024, the AIU spent $4.5 million on testing, 37% of its $11.9 million budget, but Clothier believes this figure should be higher. Adidas contributed $50,000 to cover Sawe's pre-Berlin testing, and Clothier hopes this sets a precedent.

"Marathon runners are among the most tested athletes in the world, and the anti-doping system in Kenya is the best anywhere," Clothier stated.

"It's encouraging that this special program was initiated by an athlete, supported by his team and sponsor. We hope it serves as an example that inspires more investment, so fans can have faith in the results of these great races."

Meanwhile, looking ahead, Sawe is preparing for what is expected to be a highly competitive London Marathon on April 26, 2026.

He will face off against half-marathon world record holder and Chicago Marathon champion Jacob Kiplimo, aiming not just for a victory but to continue championing the cause of clean competition.