Overview
- After reviewing the matter, the Biathlon Integrity Unit said it will take no additional action and is satisfied with the French court ruling and national federation sanctions.
- Julia Simon admitted in October to repeatedly using teammates’ bank cards and stealing small sums, receiving a three‑month suspended sentence and a €15,000 criminal fine.
- The French Ski Federation imposed a six‑month sporting suspension with five months suspended and additional fines, which ruled Simon out of the Östersund World Cup opener.
- Reports of a separate rifle‑manipulation allegation prompted a federation statement saying no misconduct was found, though a team‑rules breach was investigated and sanctioned, as an ARD commentator also reported threats to reporters who pursued the topic.
- Martin Fourcade praised the French women’s team and coaches for maintaining cohesion through the turmoil, and France opened the season with a relay victory in Östersund.