German Olympic cross-country skier Victoria Carl has tested positive for the banned substance Clenbuterol, in an out-of-competition doping control following the CISM Winter Military World Games in March.
The German Ski Association (DSV) has issued a public statement in support of Carl stating that WADA banned substance was simply an ingredient in a cough syrup that was accidentally medically administered to the skier to treat acute spastic bronchitis by a German Army doctor. The cough syrup was apparently not what they ordered and the pharmacy mistakenly delivered medication containing Clenbuterol. An internal investigation by the German Armed Forces Medical Service identified a series of procedural errors that lead to the mistake.
The Bundeswehr Medical Service explained the processes that led to the mistake:
- Instead of the originally ordered cough syrup Mucosolvan (Ambroxol), the Bundeswehr pharmacy mistakenly delivered the combination preparation Spasmo Mucosolvan (Ambroxol + Clenbuterol).
- The medicine case was packed by untrained staff.
- At the time of the acute illness, no alternative medication was available at the place of accommodation in Andermatt.
- The attending military doctor administered the drug under great time pressure, but failed to point out the doping-relevant ingredient or to submit an emergency application for a therapeutic exemption.
The DSV and Bundeswehr are both requesting Germany’s National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) to conduct a nuanced and individualized evaluation and take into account the circumstances that led to the mistake. The organizations are seeking leniency as even even a short suspension could mean Carl’s exclusion from the 2026 Winter Olympics.
“I was ill, had severe coughing fits, and took the medication on medical advice. I disclosed everything – I was unaware that it contained a prohibited substance. I very much hope that the circumstances will be understood and fairly assessed.” -Victoria Carl
By all accounts this was an honest mistake made in attempt to help a severely ill athlete. We hope that NADA takes all the circumstances surrounding the failed drug test into account when they make their decision.