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French Biathlon Champion Julia Simon Gets Mostly Suspended Ban, Remains Eligible for 2026 Olympics

A largely suspended federation ban restores her eligibility for top competition, including the 2026 Olympics.

Winter Sports - Biathlon World Championships - Lenzerheide, Switzerland - February 18, 2025 Gold medallist France's Julia Simon celebrates on the podium after winning the Women's 15km Individual REUTERS/Denis Balibouse/File Photo

Overview

  • France’s ski federation disciplinary commission imposed a six-month sanction with five months suspended, effective November 7.
  • Under the decision, she will miss the November 29 World Cup opener in Östersund and can return at Hochfilzen on December 12.
  • Simon was fined €30,000, with €15,000 suspended, to be paid within six months to the federation for youth biathlon training.
  • A French court last month convicted her of theft and credit card fraud and issued a three-month suspended prison sentence.
  • She admitted using the bank cards of teammate Justine Braisaz-Bouchet and a team staff member for purchases exceeding €2,000, and both she and the federation have the right to appeal the sporting ruling.