It took almost two years, but an athlete proved that he was falsely accused of blood doping

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) cleared Japanese racewalker Koki Ikeda of doping charges and annulled his four-year ban. The CAS accepted Ikeda's appeal against the decision of World Athletics, stating he is not guilty of doping violations. Ikeda was provisionally suspended in November 2024 and received a four-year ban in February 2025 for allegedly using prohibited substances. He contested these allegations, providing medical evidence that contradicted the findings of World Athletics. The CAS reviewed the case in May 2026, ultimately ruling in Ikeda's favor. The 28-year-old athlete has previously won medals at the Universiade, Asian Games, and the Tokyo Olympics, and holds one of the fastest times in the 20 km race walk.