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FFS Hands Julia Simon Six-Month Ban, Olympic Path Remains Open

Five months suspended limits the penalty to the Östersund opener, preserving eligibility for Hochfilzen.

Overview

  • France’s federation imposed a six-month competition and training ban on Simon, with five months suspended, effective November 7 across FFS and IBU events.
  • She also received a €30,000 federation fine, half suspended, following an October criminal conviction of a three-month suspended sentence and a €15,000 fine.
  • Simon admitted in court to theft and credit-card fraud tied to online purchases of roughly €2,300–€2,500 using data from teammate Justine Braisaz-Bouchet and others in 2021–2022.
  • The sanction means she misses the World Cup opener in Östersund on November 29 but can be selected for Hochfilzen in December and remains eligible for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
  • Both sides have seven days to appeal the FFS decision; media report the BIU/IBU is monitoring potential further action, and French outlets describe team tension with coach Cyril Burdet said to be considering stepping down.