Several months after the scandal, everything is still quiet around the German cross-country skiing star. Now Marit Bjørgen speaks out.

The news of the doping scandal hit like a bomb in June. But months later, nobody yet knows what the verdict will be against the German cross-country skiing star Victoria Carl.

“It must be terribly tough,” says Norwegian national team coach Marit Bjørgen.

On June 25, it was announced that the German star Victoria Carl had tested positive for Clenbuterol during the Military World Championships at the end of March. The substance is on WADA’s prohibited list. Carl is said to have ingested the substance by mistake through a cough syrup.

Also Read: Victoria Carl tests positive for Clenbuterol after taking prescribed medication

The news shocked the ski community both inside and outside Germany. Speculation about Carl’s sanction ranges widely – from complete acquittal to a four-year ban.

Read More: Controversial doping case sparks expert divide

The story continues below.

Bjørgen fears the worst

The circumstances surrounding Carl’s case are similar to those of many others, not least the one that affected Therese Johaug in 2016. Johaug was banned for 18 months.

“It must be incredibly tough not to know what the outcome will be,” says Bjørgen, who is currently at a training camp with the Norwegian women in Torsby.

The 45-year-old fears Carl may risk a heavy sanction, based on what happened with Johaug.

“Therese received a longer ban because she was a high-profile athlete, and it’s the same situation for Victoria Carl. You have a personal responsibility and must check every medication you take. It doesn’t help to blame a doctor,” Bjørgen told Expressen.

So, should she receive a similar punishment?

“Yes, if it turns out to be a similar violation, then she is at the same level as Therese was. So, there should be no difference,” says Bjørgen, adding:

“But in any case, it’s tragic. It would be best for all parties if everything is handled quickly and efficiently.”

Know nothing

Swedish coach Per Nilsson, who also trains Carl, says everyone involved has been questioned by the German anti-doping agency NADA. But so far, no one has received any information.

“We are all waiting for news now. The last I heard was that something might come in mid-September,” Nilsson told Expressen.

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