German para-skier Katrin Marchand failed to finish the classic race at the 2026 Paralympic Games. The athlete was in contention for a medal, but ultimately did not even finish the race.
Marchand was one of the contenders for the 10 km classic time trial. The German was fighting for the bronze medal of the competition, but suddenly stopped and decided to finish the race early.
After Marchand was unable to continue competing in the race and compete for the medals, she sat on the side of the track and covered her face with her hands. Later, the athlete was approached by police officers and volunteers who work at the stadium and monitor the safety of participants and compliance with the rules of conduct by fans.
Marchand was helped off the track and back to the team. After the race, the German team's media manager, Benjamin Schiller, commented on the incident with their athlete, noting that the team had been dealing with a series of illnesses, which had also affected Marchand's health.
“She needed help, our doctor is with Catherine now,” Schiller noted.
Another German athlete, Sebastian Marburger, also failed to finish the race. According to Schiller, the athlete tried to recover from an illness but ultimately lacked the strength to complete the Paralympic sprint.
“He [Marbuger] was sick for a week and couldn't skate during that time. He tried his best, but it was too difficult for him,” said Benjamin Schiller.
In the end, the race was won by American Sydney Peterson, who was 2.6 seconds ahead of her closest competitor, Wilde Nielsen from Norway, and the top three was rounded out by Canadian Brittany Gudak.
Catherine Marchand: what is known about the athlete
- 35-year-old German athlete.
- Participated in the 2016 Summer Olympics in rowing doubles. Two-time European champion in canoe doubles and eights.
- In 2022, she competed in para-rowing for the first time, having previously suffered a stroke that affected her health. At the 2024 Paralympics, Marchand placed fourth in the rowing four.
- In 2026, she made her first appearance on the Winter Paralympic team, becoming part of the para-skiing team.