Not ordinary for Martin Fourcade, medalist 16 years later

Martin Fourcade recently received his 6th Olympic gold medal with immense pride. The French athlete, the most decorated in Olympic history in both summer and winter games, officially received his 6th gold medal in September after the Russian Evgeny Ustyugov was permanently suspended by the International Olympic Committee. This decision came after Ustyugov was initially declared the winner of the mass-start event in Vancouver in 2010, but was later disqualified for doping violations.

On February 15, Martin Fourcade was presented with his ultimate reward in Anterselva, in front of his children and family, alongside Norwegian biathletes Johannes Boe and Ole Einard Bjoerndalen. On Monday, Fourcade proudly displayed his new gold medal in the showcase of his sponsor, Rossignol. At a ceremony at the ski brand’s headquarters in Saint-Jean-de-Moirans, Isère, Fourcade joined other athletes to celebrate the end of the winter season. It had been 5 years since the biathlete last performed such a gesture.

“This new medal truly is remarkable,” Fourcade said. “I now enter the club of athletes who have won a title in 3 Olympic editions, a beautiful sign of longevity!” The most decorated French athlete in Olympic history also noted the achievements of judoka Teddy Riner, emphasizing the challenges of individual sports. Reflecting on his success 16 years later, Fourcade expressed satisfaction and gratitude for the different emotions experienced with his loved ones, especially his children.