Stian Angermund, the Norwegian path operating champion whose profession was upended by a constructive doping check in 2023, has lastly obtained closure. On Christmas Eve, Angermund accepted a settlement from French anti-doping authorities, ending a 16-month suspension for what consultants concluded was possible contamination moderately than intentional doping. The ruling permits Angermund to show the web page on a deeply difficult chapter as he units his sights on a recent begin in 2025.
A surprising allegation
In October 2023, Angermund obtained devastating information: a doping check taken after his victory on the OCC (the 55km occasion at Extremely-Path du Mont-Blanc) had returned constructive for chlorthalidone, a banned diuretic. For the reigning short-course world champion and two-time Golden Path Collection winner, the accusation despatched shockwaves by means of the path operating neighborhood. Common for his pleasant demeanor and professionalism, Angermund maintained his innocence, stating unequivocally, in an interview with Athletics Weekly, “I’m a clear athlete.”
The trail-running world discovered itself divided. Some rallied behind Angermund, citing his clear fame, whereas others expressed disappointment, adhering to a strict “no tolerance” stance on doping.
The case for contamination
Because the months dragged on, Angermund’s case unraveled the complexities of anti-doping rules. French anti-doping authorities (AFLD), who performed the testing, concluded after an in depth evaluate that the almost definitely rationalization for the presence of chlorthalidone was contamination. Their skilled, Michel Audran, dismissed the opportunity of intentional use, stating: “Given the athlete’s data of doping, they might not have chosen chlorthalidone, figuring out that its elimination could be very sluggish. The chance stays of contamination near or throughout the competitors.” Regardless of impartial affirmation supporting this principle, Angermund was nonetheless supplied a 16-month suspension underneath inflexible anti-doping guidelines. Angermund’s sentence was over as of the ruling, equating to the time he had already served whereas throughout proceedings.
An extended highway to closure
Angermund’s suspension meant shedding his 2023 OCC title, sponsors and revenue. “These previous months have been probably the most troublesome and difficult of my sporting profession,” he shared on Instagram. “I’ve misplaced my wage, race bonuses, and a few of my fame.”
On Christmas Eve, Angermund accepted the AFLD’s settlement supply, which successfully ended his suspension, as he had already served the required 16 months. Whereas the end result brings some closure, the emotional toll and profession setbacks stay important.
Trying forward
Now 37, Angermund stays decided to return to the game he loves. “I had hoped for a ‘No Fault’ consequence, however the course of has been sluggish and unforgiving,” he wrote. “Regardless of this, I’m aiming for a powerful 2025, with new prospects, new objectives, and hopefully new sponsors.”