Emilien Claude has been forced to the sidelines after undergoing back surgery in Innsbruck, Austria, on Thursday.

The 26-year-old French biathlete Emilien Claude had been struggling with back problems for several weeks, and during a training session earlier this week the pain became acute.

Claude, who claimed his first World Cup podium last winter and helped France secure silver in the World Championship relay, had been limiting his training throughout the summer camp in Bessans. While his teammates pushed heavy weights in the gym, he followed a lighter, individualized program. Even so, it was evident that he was not at full strength.

“After some discomfort for several weeks, my back said stop last week during a training session,” Claude wrote on social media and added:

“The MRI results in Innsbruck were more serious than expected, showing a herniated disc that couldn’t wait for surgery, especially with the winter season ahead.”

The operation was carried out in Innsbruck, where Claude also spends part of the year together with his partner, Austrian biathlete Anna Gandler.

The story continues below.

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Will miss Olympic training camp

Claude confirmed that the surgery was successful, but he now faces a lengthy training break. Among other setbacks, he will miss the French national team’s upcoming camp in Anterselva, where the Olympic Games will be held next winter.

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