Doping Controversy Hits Italian Biathlete Before Olympics

Italian biathlete Rebecca Passler has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for letrozole, shortly before the Milan Cortina Olympics. The suspension follows an out-of-competition sample testing, prompting both the Italian anti-doping agency and the Italian Winter Sports Federation to investigate the incident. Passler's career hangs in balance.

Italian biathlete Rebecca Passler has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for letrozole, a substance that can be used to treat breast cancer and manage steroid effects. The test was conducted outside the official Games-time testing program, just days before the Milan Cortina Olympics.

The Italian Winter Sports Federation (FISI) announced it is investigating, hoping to support Passler through the process and maintain the federation's image. FISI President Flavio Roda emphasized the importance of resolving the issue to avoid potential damage to Passler's career.

Passler, 24, was scheduled to compete in biathlon events and shares a family legacy in the sport; her uncle, Johann Passler, is a former Olympic medalist. For now, the disciplinary case will be overseen by Italy's anti-doping agency as the situation develops.

(With inputs from agencies.)