Unlike Julia Simon’s case, Jeanne Richard’s case has no criminal relevance, but the young biathlete’s behavior at the French training camp in Bessans is still a big issue. But the 23-year-old is not allowed to talk about it.
As if the scandal surrounding Julia Simon wasn’t enough, the French biathlon team is currently fighting against the unpleasant headlines produced by Jeanne Richard. The 23-year-old is said to have tampered with her teammate Océane Michelon’s rifle before a race towards the end of last season and was caught red-handed.
At a press conference on the sidelines of the French training camp in Bessans, the journalists present wanted to know more about the case, but learned little. According to L’Équipe, Richard was asked by a member of staff not to answer any questions about it.
Questions about scandals forbidden
Richard seemed very tense and was about to make a statement when someone intervened, writes L’Équipe. The sports newspaper describes the spectacle as a “surprising scene”. Those responsible had already given journalists instructions to only discuss sporting topics. However, given the current circumstances, this was hardly possible.
Women’s head coach Cyril Burdet also did not comment on the case and simply said: “There is nothing to say about it.” According to the trainer, he does not want to comment on things that only affect the team internally.
A member of the team only told “L’Équipe” that the case had been resolved internally.
“It’s been like this for three years now”
Given all the drama surrounding the team, the question arises as to whether any lasting damage has been caused. However, Lou Jeanmonnot brushed aside this speculation and said matter-of-factly: “It’s been like this for three years now.” Yes, it wasn’t an easy time, “but it helped us to concentrate much more on what was necessary for our performance.”
The results of the last few years support Jeanmonnot’s thesis: Last season, the women’s team was by far the best in the World Cup. Five French women ended up in the top 10 in the overall World Cup. The year before, they took three of the top five places – despite all the unrest.