Julia Simon Cleared for Winter Olympics Despite Fraud Conviction
Albertville, 14 January 2026 – French biathlete Julia Simon, a ten-time world champion and 2023 overall World Cup winner, has been handed a six-month competition ban by the French Ski Federation following her conviction for credit card fraud and theft. However, with five months of the ban suspended, Simon remains eligible to compete at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.
Background of the Scandal
Simon, 29, admitted to using the credit cards of teammate Justine Braisaz-Bouchet and a team physiotherapist to make online purchases totalling around €2,300 in 2022. She was convicted in October 2025 by a court in Albertville, receiving a three-month suspended prison sentence and a €15,000 fine. The French Ski Federation’s disciplinary commission imposed the additional ban on 7 November 2025, prohibiting her from participating in competitions or training sessions organised by the federation or the International Biathlon Union (IBU). The ban took effect immediately, ruling her out of the World Cup season opener in Östersund on 29 November 2025.
The suspension of most of the ban allows Simon to return to competition in time for the Olympics, which begin on 6 February 2026. The federation stated that the €30,000 fine (€15,000 suspended) will fund training for young biathletes. Both Simon and the federation have the right to appeal the decision within seven days.
Simon expressed remorse during her trial, stating she could not explain her actions and had worked with a psychologist to understand them. The incident stemmed from internal team issues that emerged in September 2022, leading to her temporary exclusion from training in 2023 and brief police custody in October of that year.
Key Facts and Career Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth and Origin | Born 9 October 1996 in Albertville, France; from Club des Sports Les Saisies. |
| Career Achievements | 2023 Overall World Cup winner; 10 world championship gold medals; Olympic silver in mixed relay (2022). |
| Recent Performances | Third in 2024-2025 World Cup overall standings; four gold medals at 2025 World Championships in Lenzerheide. |
| Shooting and Skiing Stats (2024-2025 Season) | Prone shooting: 91%; Standing: 89%; Skiing time behind fastest: +5.5 s/km. |
| Legal Outcome | Convicted of fraud and theft; three-month suspended sentence; €15,000 fine; six-month sports ban (five suspended). |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the credit card scandal about?
The scandal involved Simon using the credit cards of her teammate Justine Braisaz-Bouchet and a team physiotherapist for unauthorised purchases in 2022. She admitted the charges in court, apologising and stating there was no financial motive.
Will Julia Simon compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics?
Yes, the suspended portion of her ban allows her to participate in the Olympics starting 6 February 2026, as the ban expires in time for the event.
How has this affected her career?
Simon missed the start of the 2025-2026 World Cup season but can resume training and competing soon. The incident has drawn scrutiny, but her eligibility for major events remains intact pending any appeals.