Home Sports Trial to Proceed for Former Speedskater Bridie Farrell’s Negligence Claims

Trial to Proceed for Former Speedskater Bridie Farrell’s Negligence Claims

Trial to Proceed for Former Speedskater Bridie Farrell’s Negligence Claims

In 2020, Bridie Farrell, a former Team USA competitive speedskater, filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and U.S. Speedskating. She accused them of failing to shield her from sexual abuse by ex-Olympic speedskater Andy Gabel.

As of July 24, 2026, nearly six years after the suit’s initiation, a federal judge has decided that Farrell’s negligence claims can move forward to trial. This ruling dismisses attempts by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and U.S. Speedskating to have the case thrown out.

The decision signifies a step towards holding these organizations accountable for their alleged lack of protection for athletes.

Bridie Farrell in 2024
Bridie Farrell in 2024. (Photo by Hannah Foslien)

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