The French Ski Federation (FFS) has taken a decisive and immediate action by suspending Joël Chenal, the celebrated Olympic silver medalist and former national coach, amid serious allegations of sexual harassment against minors. This development, announced on July 23, 2025, has sent ripples through the winter sports community, as Chenal’s suspension halts all his professional engagements within the federation just months before the 2025–26 World Cup season and the Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026.
Joël Chenal, born in Moûtiers in the French Alps, rose to prominence in the late 1990s as a giant slalom specialist. His career pinnacle came at the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics, where he secured a silver medal in the men’s giant slalom—France’s sole alpine skiing medal at those Games. Known for his technical prowess, calm demeanor, and elegant carving style, Chenal was a beacon of French alpine skiing excellence. After retiring from competitive skiing in 2010, he transitioned into coaching and administrative roles within the FFS, mentoring young talents and contributing to the sport’s development in France.
However, this illustrious legacy is now overshadowed by grave accusations. The suspension follows a detailed investigation by the French newspaper Le Monde, which spoke with 12 women alleging incidents of sexual harassment spanning from 2005 to 2021, when they were minors. Five new allegations surfaced in the latest report published on July 23, adding to seven earlier testimonies revealed in a July 4 investigation.
One of the women has formally filed a complaint for sexual assault, prompting the prosecutor’s office in Albertville to open an investigation. The FFS, led by President Fabien Saguez since 2022, has responded by initiating disciplinary proceedings and imposing an immediate provisional suspension on Chenal. Saguez, who was also the French women’s national team coach and technical director during the period when Chenal coached from 2013 to 2017, emphasized the federation’s commitment to ethical principles and zero tolerance for violence or inappropriate behavior.
In a statement, the FFS declared it would join the legal case as a plaintiff, underscoring its dedication to supporting victims and cooperating fully with judicial authorities to uncover the truth behind these unacceptable acts. “No leniency or silence will be tolerated. The FFS will relentlessly continue its efforts to prevent, report and sanction any violation of ethics and human dignity,” the federation affirmed.
FFS President Michel Vion also highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating that the integrity of the federation and protection of its members must come first. He noted that the decision to suspend Chenal was not taken lightly and that the final outcome of the review process would determine any further actions.
The suspension has created a significant void within the French alpine skiing community. Chenal’s role as a mentor and coach was vital in preparing athletes for upcoming competitions, including the Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026. His absence leaves young athletes and coaching staff uncertain about the future, potentially disrupting team dynamics and preparation strategies. Notably, prominent French skiers such as Tessa Worley and Clément Noël, who had direct mentorship ties with Chenal, now face a period of adjustment.
Public and media reactions have been measured but intense. French media outlets have largely refrained from speculation, focusing on Chenal’s past achievements while covering the unfolding legal and disciplinary proceedings. Social media responses reveal a mix of shock and calls for transparency, with many urging patience until the full review concludes.
The situation also raises broader questions about the oversight and accountability of athlete-turned-coaches within sports federations. The FFS’s proactive stance reflects an evolving expectation for professional conduct not only on the slopes but throughout every facet of an athlete’s career and legacy.
France’s Ministry of Sports has acknowledged the FFS’s actions and confirmed that an administrative investigation was launched following the initial revelations. The ministry is closely monitoring developments and any measures taken to ensure justice and uphold the sport’s integrity.
Joël Chenal’s suspension arrives at a critical juncture for French alpine skiing. The sport has historically been a cornerstone of France’s Winter Olympic success, producing legends like Jean-Claude Killy and Alexis Pinturault. Chenal’s own Olympic success in 2006 helped bridge a generational gap and invigorated national interest in alpine skiing. As the federation navigates this crisis, it faces the delicate task of balancing tradition with transparency while maintaining focus on athlete development and Olympic preparation.
For fans worldwide anticipating the Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026, this episode serves as a reminder that the spirit of the Games extends beyond competition to encompass integrity and respect. The federation’s swift action signals a commitment to these values, even as the investigation continues.
As the French skiing community grapples with this upheaval, attention turns to the athletes who carry forward the torch of competition and national pride. Their performances in the upcoming season and the Olympics will be watched closely, not only for sporting excellence but as a testament to resilience amid adversity.
Ultimately, Joël Chenal’s legacy remains in flux. His athletic achievements stand firm, but the unfolding legal and disciplinary processes will shape the final chapters of his story in French alpine skiing. Meanwhile, the FFS’s firm stance on ethics and justice sets a precedent for the future, underscoring the evolving standards expected in the world of sports.
