Olympics
Victoria Carl, a two-time Olympic medalist in cross-country skiing, is under investigation after testing positive for clenbuterol, a banned anabolic substance. The positive test, confirmed by Germany’s ski federation, was collected during an out-of-competition doping control while Carl was competing in the Winter Military World Games earlier this year.
Carl, who won gold in the team sprint and silver in the relay at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, is a member of the German armed forces sports program. The German Ski Association (DSV) said the source of the banned substance was a cough syrup issued by military medical personnel during treatment for a respiratory illness.
According to a statement from the Bundeswehr, the incorrect medication was delivered and administered due to a logistical error involving untrained personnel. The military said no alternative treatment was available at the time. The National Anti-Doping Agency of Germany (NADA) has since opened disciplinary proceedings. Both the DSV and Bundeswehr are supporting Carl and have called for a case-specific review of the circumstances, citing medical necessity and transparency in the athlete’s disclosures.
Under international anti-doping rules, clenbuterol is prohibited at all times. Sanctions can apply regardless of intent or source, though mitigating circumstances may influence final outcomes. Carl has continued to compete at the highest levels of international skiing since her Olympic success in 2022. A suspension could threaten her eligibility for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, scheduled to begin in February.
No further details on the timeline for NADA’s decision have been released.
