Doping Notice Forces Judoka Arun Kumar Out Of Commonwealth Games: Report

Days before a coveted Commonwealth Games debut, judoka Arun Kumar was ruled out of contention for the tournament after he tested positive for a banned substance. He received a notice for an adverse analytical finding in an out-of-competition dope test.

Arun, who was due to compete in the men’s 73kg category, has been ruled ineligible for this year’s judo competition after the latest development.

The National Anti-Doping Agency issued the notice on Wednesday and Arun’s name has already been removed from the 2026 Commonwealth Games Sports Entries System.

The International Judo Federation notified the organisers after being informed of Arun’s adverse analytical finding, while the Indian Olympic Association has also been apprised of the development.

“Glasgow 2026 has received confirmation from the International Judo Federation that Arun Kumar isn’t eligible to compete at Glasgow 2026. As a result, they will be removed from the Sport Entries System,” Ellise Anderson said on behalf of the organisers.

Judo Federation of India president Mukesh Kumar expressed sympathy for the athlete while confirming that India wouldn’t name a replacement in the men’s 73kg category.

“His notice only came yesterday, which says he has to send his reply in 15 days. We will give him time, but as per the rules, he can’t compete. We can also not replace anyone on such short notice. It’s unfortunate as we had big hopes from Arun,” Mukesh said while speaking to The Tribune.

Who Is Arun Kumar?

Arun has represented India at multiple major international competitions, earning recognition for his consistency, technical prowess and rapid rise through the ranks.

Arun first announced himself on the international stage by clinching the gold medal in the men’s 73kg category at the 2023 Macau Junior Asian Cup, emerging as one of Asia’s most promising young judokas.