Biathlete Julia Simon convicted — receives suspended sentence and fine for fraud and theft

French biathlon star Julia Simon has been convicted of theft and fraud after admitting guilt in court.

Appearing before a French court on Friday, Simon began proceedings by acknowledging the charges. “There were no financial motives for my actions. Today I take it day by day; standing before you will have consequences for my career. It was ridiculous and stupid, because I didn’t need it,” she said, according to Dauphiné Libéré.

The 29‑year‑old received a three‑month suspended prison sentence and was ordered to pay a €15,000 fine. The case dates back to 2022, when Simon was reported to police for allegedly using French teammate Justine Braisaz‑Bouchet’s credit card to order goods worth tens of thousands of kronor. French media report investigators also identified two additional victims.

In court it emerged that the victims had sought a settlement and reimbursement from Simon. Up to the trial, she had maintained her innocence and claimed identity theft. After no settlement was reached, the matter proceeded to judgment. Prosecutors had requested a two‑month suspended sentence and a €20,000 fine.

Simon won four gold medals at the Biathlon World Championships in Switzerland earlier this year and is considered one of France’s top medal hopes for the Milano–Cortina Olympics in February. Following the verdict, French media report she could be suspended from the national team. In a statement, the French Ski Federation said its national disciplinary commission—which had paused its process pending the court decision—will reconvene as soon as possible to decide on further action.