French media: Julia Simon admits facts in fraud case, receives suspended sentence and fine

French biathlon star Julia Simon appeared in an Albertville court on Friday over a fraud case tied to teammate Justine Braisaz-Bouchet and two other individuals. According to multiple French outlets, including Le Dauphiné Libéré, Simon admitted the facts of the case during her testimony after long maintaining her innocence and previously suggesting identity theft.

The charges covered five counts:

• Fraud on 2 December 2021 in Östersund, Sweden.
• Fraud between 5–11 August 2022 in Villard-sur-Doron, France, and Sandnes, Norway.
• Theft between 5–7 August 2022 in Sandnes, Norway.
• Fraud between 22–25 September 2022 in Prémanon, France.
• Attempted fraud between 22–25 September 2022 in Prémanon, France.

Shortly after closing arguments, the court found Simon guilty on all counts, handing down a three‑month suspended prison sentence and a €15,000 fine (the prosecutor had sought two months suspended and a €20,000 fine). Simon reportedly told the court she panicked, could not explain her actions, and apologized, adding there was no financial motivation behind what she did. She also said attempts were made to reach a settlement and repay, but the case proceeded to trial. Braisaz‑Bouchet did not attend, with her lawyer citing the difficult situation.

The French Ski Federation (FFS) stated it will reconvene its independent disciplinary committee now that the judicial process is complete, reaffirming its intent to protect athletes and team functioning. French federation president Fabien Saguez declined to comment on Simon’s future on the team on Friday. Media in France have noted that a conviction could jeopardize her place on the national team, with only a few months until the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.

Despite the ongoing proceedings, Simon and Braisaz‑Bouchet have remained on the French national team and described their relationship as professional. In February’s World Championships in Lenzerheide, Simon won four gold medals (three in relays). Last weekend, she raced the Loop One exhibition event in Munich but did not reach the final and skipped the mixed zone afterward.