TEHRAN – Iranian 3,000 meters runner Hossein Keyhani has been banned for eight years following a positive test for erythropoietin (EPO).

He is not allowed to compete until March of 2034.

EPO boosts red blood cells to enhance performance in endurance events and is on the World Anti-Doping Agency's prohibited list.

Keyhani won a gold medal in the Men's 3000m Steeplechase in the 2018 Asian Games.