Recently, the China Anti-Doping Center published information about a doping violation by Chinese middle- and long-distance runner Zhu Hongyu.
The information shows he was detected during in-competition doping control carried out at the 2026 National Athletics Regional Invitation (two stops); the A-sample urine test was positive for a hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) activator (roxadustat).
01
Violation and sanction
At the sixth stop of the Regional Invitation he competed in the men's 3000 m steeplechase, finishing second in 9:24:02.
Roxadustat is listed on the 2026 Prohibited List as a hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) activator (non-specified substance); it is banned both in-competition and out-of-competition.
After preliminary review, Zhu Hongyu did not have a therapeutic use exemption for roxadustat and is suspected of an anti-doping rule violation.
Under the relevant rules, a first alleged anti-doping violation faces a 4-year ban. If unintentional, the suspension may be reduced to 2 years; if aggravating circumstances exist, the ban could be increased to 6 years.
02
Previous performances
Currently, Zhu Hongyu is under suspension. His coach is Shi Peng. Coach Shi Peng also coaches Liu Dezu (specialty 800 m), Xie Tao (specialty 800 m), and Wang Jiahao (specialty 1500 m).
Zhu Hongyu is from Sichuan, a middle- and long-distance runner (specialty 1500 m), and just turned 20 this year. He was registered in Shanghai in 2025 and registered in Sichuan in 2026.
800 m PB 1:52.13 2025.6.24
1500 m PB 3:48.03 2026.4.28
3000 m steeplechase 9:11.42 2026.4.29
On March 21, 2026, he ran 20:38 to place 28th in the men's adult professional 6 km race at the 2026 National Cross Country Championships (Stage 3).
What do you think? This has been circulating within the community for quite a while — how will the final sanction play out?
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#Regarding Zhu Hongyu's doping violation, what do you think?#
Text/Editor: Paoye Dabaozha/Cia
Image source: Paoye Dabaozha
Visuals: Max
