After positive test, coach Schlickenrieder expects Olympic ban for Victoria Carl

Germany’s cross-country head coach Peter Schlickenrieder anticipates that Victoria Carl will receive a doping suspension lasting at least until the Olympic Games.

“Everyone understands there was no intention to dope,” Schlickenrieder said, “but other people’s mistakes or ignorance do not protect you from sanctions. We clearly expect she will miss the Olympics.”

Carl (30), an Olympic champion, tested positive for clenbuterol at a doping control at the end of March. According to reports, the substance was contained in a cough syrup prescribed to her after the season during the Military World Games. A ruling has not yet been issued.

“I think it’s taking so long because it’s not a simple case,” Schlickenrieder added. “But at the end of the day there are facts no one can jump over. It’s tragic for Victoria. It looks like a childhood dream is bursting.”

The German Ski Association says the medication was prescribed and administered by a Bundeswehr (German armed forces) doctor. However, even negligent ingestion can result in a ban.

Schlickenrieder noted that without Carl, the team will lose the athlete most likely to win an individual medal. He said the staff is trying to keep her motivated, pointing toward a long-term goal: “Olympics 2030—she can do it. I want to see you leave as an Olympic champion.”

Carl won surprise Olympic gold in the team sprint with Katharina Hennig at Beijing 2022 and finished second in the overall World Cup last season.