Threatened doping ban? “A catastrophe” for Victoria Carl

Germany’s cross-country sprint Olympic champion Victoria Carl is staring at a likely doping suspension that could rule her out of the 2026 Winter Olympics. The 30‑year‑old is provisionally suspended and training on her own while awaiting a ruling in her clenbuterol case.

According to national coach Peter Schlickenrieder, Carl tested positive at the end of March for clenbuterol, a substance she says was contained in a cough syrup prescribed after the season at the Military World Games. A decision on sanctions has been repeatedly delayed—from September to October, and now to mid‑November—something Schlickenrieder interprets as a sign the authorities are examining the case thoroughly. Nonetheless, he is preparing for a ban at least through the Olympics, calling the situation “a catastrophe,” especially as Carl was Germany’s best chance for an individual medal.

The provisional suspension bars Carl from joining the national training group or using federation‑funded facilities, leaving her to organize all training independently. Schlickenrieder says this is “mentally extremely difficult,” but stresses the federation’s support: regular contact with coaches, psychological assistance via a DSV sports psychologist, and a focus on long‑term goals. As motivation, the team is setting its sights on the 2030 Olympics, where they still hope to see Carl as an Olympic champion.

The cross‑country World Cup season traditionally starts in Ruka, Finland, on 28 November 2025. Whether Carl will be cleared to compete by then remains uncertain.