German Gymnastics Faces Abuse Allegations as Prosecutors Investigate Attempted Bodily Harm
The Stuttgart Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating two trainers at the Mannheim training center over a 2016 incident, while the German Gymnastics Federation suspends key personnel and confronts broader systemic criticism.
- The Stuttgart Public Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into two trainers at the Mannheim training center for attempted grievous bodily harm related to a 2016 incident.
- Multiple properties were searched by the Baden-Württemberg State Criminal Police Office as part of the ongoing investigation.
- Claudia Schunk, a national junior coach, and another trainer from Mannheim have been suspended, with the German Gymnastics Federation emphasizing the presumption of innocence.
- Former gymnast Tabea Alt's public allegations of systemic abuse, including psychological and physical mistreatment, have intensified scrutiny of training practices in German gymnastics.
- The investigation highlights broader criticism of authoritarian and harsh training methods at key centers, reflecting systemic issues within the sport.