Julia Simon set to return at Hochfilzen World Cup after six‑month ban

France’s ten‑time world champion Julia Simon will return to the Biathlon World Cup in Hochfilzen after a six‑month suspension handed down by the French Ski Federation (FFS) — five months of which were suspended — that took effect on 7 November. The FFS confirmed the 29‑year‑old is named to the French squad for Hochfilzen, meaning she only missed the season opener in Östersund and remains mathematically in the hunt for the overall World Cup race.

Simon was convicted on 24 October for credit card fraud. She admitted to repeatedly using the bank cards of teammate Justine Braisaz‑Bouchet and a team physiotherapist since 2021 for purchases amounting to up to €2,400, as well as taking small amounts of cash. After a confession and public apology, she received a three‑month suspended prison sentence and a €15,000 fine. The FFS disciplinary panel then imposed a six‑month ban (five suspended), effective 7 November, and an additional €30,000 fine.

Preparing for her personal season debut away from the French team, Simon has struggled at times to concentrate during shooting drills, according to national shooting coach Jean‑Paul Giachino, who said such difficulties are normal given recent events. Publicly, Braisaz‑Bouchet has attempted to ease tensions, stating she respects Simon as an athlete and that, provided her own sporting career is respected, there is no problem.

The piece also addresses broader unrest within the French women’s team. Following Simon’s case, rumors surfaced that Jeanne Richard had allegedly tampered with teammate Océane Michelon’s rifle at Pokljuka — purportedly witnessed by Braisaz‑Bouchet. The FFS issued a statement denying any misconduct findings, though it acknowledged addressing a breach of team rules at the start of the season that led to an unspecified sanction after an internal inquiry.

With Simon’s return in Hochfilzen, attention turns to how France’s internal issues may affect results. Her performance this weekend will indicate whether her individual preparation has been sufficient to compete at the top level again.