Beijing half marathon organisers said Monday they were investigating after footage shared widely online appeared to show three African runners deliberately allowing China’s He Jie to win.
Video clips of Sunday’s race showed the Kenyans Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat, Dejene Hailu of Ethiopia and home runner He approaching the finish.
The three African runners can be seen pointing to the finish line and apparently waving He out in front, while appearing to slow down.
He, the 2023 Asian Games marathon gold medallist, won by one second.
The four had stuck together throughout the course of just over 13 miles (21 kilometres), a broadcaster noted.
The event’s organiser — the Beijing Sports Competition Management and International Exchange Center — also said an investigation had been launched.
