Probe Launched into Beijing Half Marathon After Allegations of Collusion Among Runners

An investigation has been launched into a Beijing half marathon after three runners appeared to intentionally let a Chinese athlete, He Jie win the race. Footage suggests that Dejene Hailu Bikila from Ethiopia as well as Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat from Kenya slowed down to allow He Jie to finish ahead of them. Despite running together throughout the race, He Jie crossed the finish line just one second ahead of the trio.

Mnangat claimed he let He Jie win because they are friends and denied receiving any financial reward for his actions. The event organizer, the Beijing Sports Competition Management and International Exchange Centre is investigating the incident. Some Chinese social media users criticized the race, calling it embarrassing or a staged performance.

World Athletics stated that they are aware of the situation and are awaiting the outcome of the investigation before making further comments. This incident adds to the controversies surrounding distance running events in China including cheating scandals and tragic accidents during races in previous years.