Retired French Ski Racer Joël Chenal Accused Of Sexual Harassment Of Minors

Former French Olympic ski medalist Joël Chenal is facing serious accusations of sexual harassment involving minors, sources close to the investigation have revealed. The allegations, which have sent shockwaves through the French skiing community, are currently under preliminary investigation by judicial authorities.

Chenal, 49, who won a silver medal in the giant slalom at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, has not yet been officially charged. Details surrounding the nature and extent of the alleged incidents remain scarce as the investigation is in its early stages and is being handled with extreme discretion due to the sensitive nature of the accusations and the involvement of minors.

The accusations reportedly stem from multiple complaints filed with law enforcement. While the specific timelines and locations of the alleged incidents have not been publicly disclosed, it is understood that the complaints relate to events that occurred during Chenal's involvement with youth ski programs or clubs.

At least seven women, all minors at the time of the events, most of whom agreed to testify to Le Monde , say they were sexually harassed by Joël Chenal. 

The French Ski Federation (FFS) has also remained tight-lipped, issuing a brief statement acknowledging they are "aware of the reports" and are "cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation." They emphasized their commitment to a safe environment for all athletes, particularly minors.

Questioned as former president of the FFS at the time of the events, Michel Vion, who is also the Secretary General of the International Ski Federation today, admits to failings: "Our mistake was to stick to what emerged from the gendarmerie investigation. We should have been more responsive, more forceful. The fault is collective, even if I take full responsibility for it personally." He pleads for a different era than 2025: "Today, we are extremely vigilant about this kind of behavior."

Joël Chenal retired from professional skiing in 2009 and has since maintained a presence in the sport, often participating in promotional events and coaching initiatives.

It is important to note that these are currently accusations, and Joël Chenal is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The judicial process is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.