Cloud over Laura Freigang's DFB comeback amid doping scandal

Under bright sunshine over the picturesque Eppelheim near Heidelberg, the returning Laura Freigang trained with Klara Bühl and Linda Dallmann. The cheerful atmosphere was immediately noticeable, but a dark cloud still hovers over her as she completed her first World Cup season training.

Freigang has fought her way back into the DFB team with strong performances. Nevertheless, a doping test scandal threatens a suspension for her, which hardly lets the dark cloud over her return fade. Her good demeanor during warm‑up showed that she is back in the thick of it.

Doping scandal threatens suspension

Since June it has been known that she faces a two‑year suspension because three reports were missed within twelve months. The DFB control committee is mainly examining the third “strike”, which according to reports resulted from an erroneous entry in the reporting app. Freigang described the accusations as “misunderstandings”.

Sport director Nia Künzer and national coach Christian Wück emphasized that her clear form curve justifies the call‑up. This season she scored eight goals in twelve matches, a clear sign of her increased performance. The numbers speak for themselves.

Coaches praise her performance

Assistant coach Saskia Bartusiak said after the session: “She makes a refreshing impression” and admired how professionally Freigang handles the situation. National coach Christian Wück added: “Her performance at the club has changed,” since he reconsidered her after the World Cup qualification. In the attack of Eintracht Frankfurt she forms, together with a dual‑striker, a stronger duo.

Against Australia on Friday in Karlsruhe and next Tuesday in Bremen against Japan, points are at stake for the casting for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Both matches are crucial to advance in the selection process. Eintracht Frankfurt hopes that her goals will further propel the team in international competition.

Freigang said: “I simply enjoy football, love playing and capture the lightness I’m feeling right now.” After the 0‑1 victory of the Frankfurt women over FC Bayern, the captain said: “It will certainly be good, cool matches.”

Despite the looming suspension, the dark cloud remains a companion, but the optimism of Freigang and her current form give cause for confidence. Should the suspension be confirmed, she would have to take a break from international duties in the summer.