Particle.news
Download on the App Store

French Biathlon Star Julia Simon Handed Six-Month Ban, Keeps Olympic Eligibility

A partly suspended federation sanction takes effect, with international oversight ongoing and appeals still available.

Overview

  • France’s independent disciplinary commission imposed a six‑month competition and training ban on Simon, five months suspended, plus a €30,000 fine with €15,000 suspended, effective November 7 for FFS and IBU events.
  • She will miss the World Cup opener in Östersund on November 29 but is eligible to return for Hochfilzen and to compete at the MilanCortina 2026 Olympics.
  • The Biathlon Integrity Unit says it is monitoring the case and will consider any international measures after the federation process.
  • According to reporting citing L’Équipe, Simon has accepted the federation sanction and will not appeal, though a seven‑day appeal window applies to both sides.
  • In late October a court in Albertville gave her a three‑month suspended prison sentence and a €15,000 fine after she admitted using stolen card data from a teammate and a team physiotherapist for online purchases of about €2,400–€2,500 in 2021–2022.