Bridie Farrell, a former member of Team USA in speed skating, filed a lawsuit in 2020 against the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and U.S. Speedskating. She alleged that they failed to protect her from sexual abuse by Andy Gabel, a former Olympic speed skater.
On July 24, 2026, a federal judge decided that Farrell’s claims of negligence could continue to trial. This ruling came nearly six years after the initial filing of the lawsuit. The judge’s decision rejects the organizations’ efforts to have the case dismissed.
This development marks a significant step forward in Farrell’s pursuit of accountability from the sports organizations. Her allegations highlight the ongoing challenges regarding athlete safety and organizational responsibility in professional sports.
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