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French Women’s Biathlon Team Hit by Rifle-Tampering Allegation

Reports name Jeanne Richard, with the case handled internally, prompting doubts over coach Cyril Burdet’s future before the season opener.

Overview

  • French outlets Le Dauphiné and Dicodusport report that Jeanne Richard was seen manipulating Océane Michelon’s rifle during a World Cup late last season, allegedly spotted by Justine Braisaz-Bouchet.
  • The matter was handled inside the team with no public penalty, and Richard has denied the accusation after a brief exclusion at the start of summer training.
  • Fractures in the squad deepened over the summer with training split into two groups, and head coach Cyril Burdet is considering resignation ahead of Östersund on November 29.
  • The allegation drew sharp criticism abroad, with Sweden’s Björn Ferry calling equipment tampering one of the meanest acts and questioning continued national-team selection.
  • The fresh turmoil follows Julia Simon’s late-October conviction for theft and fraud, which brought a three-month suspended sentence and a €15,000 fine.