In France, a triathlon coach has been accused of abusing female athletes
In France, criminal proceedings have been opened against triathlon coach Frédéric Leroux, who is accused of sexual and psychological abuse of female athletes. Among the victims is Manon Genet, the world runner-up in long-distance triathlon.
According to law enforcement and the victims’ statements, the 44-year-old coach allegedly systematically subjected his athletes to harsh training methods, psychological pressure, humiliation, and grueling workouts, which in some cases have been described as “torture.”
The victims reported the coach’s actions to the French Ministry of Sports, the Triathlon Federation, and law enforcement agencies. It was following Manon Genet’s statement that an official investigation was launched.
Reportedly, this is not the first such incident: in 2018, similar allegations were already made against Leroux, but at that time the case was settled without a court ruling.
Currently, the coach has been suspended from professional activities for 12 years by decision of the sports disciplinary bodies. In addition, he faces criminal charges and a possible prison sentence, as the prosecutor’s office is preparing the case for trial.
Frédéric Leroux himself denies all charges.
Triathlon, the sport in which the athletes specialized, is an Olympic sport that combines swimming, cycling, and running. At the professional level, ultra-long distances are also popular, particularly the Ironman format, which includes a nearly 4 km swim, a 180 km bike race, and a 42 km marathon run.
This was reported by the publication A Bola.
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