A runner who stopped mid-race to perform splits and another who hoarded energy gels have been banned for two years in China’s Sichuan province, an athletics association said.
The two participants in the 2026 Chengdu World Heritage Marathon were penalised for violating the spirit of sportsmanship and ethical standards, according to the Sichuan Athletics Association.
The decision came after videos of the incidents went viral on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, drawing widespread criticism.
Footage showed a female runner abruptly coming to a halt during the race, dropping to the ground into a splits position, and raising her arms to form a heart shape as she appeared to pose for a photograph.
The clip showed a runner behind her tripping over her leg and scrambling to avoid falling, raising concerns about safety on the course.
A male participant who was also banned was seen carrying a large bag filled with dozens of energy gels, which are typically distributed to runners at supply stations along the route.
The Sichuan Athletics Association said both runners would be barred from taking part in all marathon events in the province for two years.
The woman “committed obstructive fouls during the race, affecting the safe participation of other runners”, the association said.
The man was disqualified from the race and stripped of his ranking by organisers.
Authorities said he had “taken and kept a large amount of on-course supplies for personal use”, adding that his actions “seriously violated the spirit of sportsmanship and ethical standards”.
The association said such behaviour undermines fairness and safety in competitive events and warned that similar violations would be dealt with strictly in future.
A user on Weibo called it “manifestations of extreme selfishness” as others demanded action against them.
China’s booming running culture has faced similar controversies in the past with organisers grappling with allegations of cheating, rule violations and viral incidents that have raised concerns over fairness and safety.
Earlier this year, a marathon official was suspended for one year after he mistakenly blocked the eventual winner at the finish line during a race in Chongqing.
In 2024, organisers of Beijing's half marathon cancelled the results of the winners He Jie and three African runners after an investigation found that the three slowed down near the line, allowing the Chinese athlete to finish first. All four were disqualified and stripped of medals
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