A new season is set to kick off in Bavaria! The starting aria could begin in Munich.
The starting point is Munich, Germany, and the format is a show race through the city streets. And let’s make these competitions part of the official calendar! The goal is, supposedly, quite noble – to increase the popularity of biathlon, reach a wider audience, and, of course, generate revenue. Isn't it reminiscent of the situation in football – more and more tournaments are desired, while players resist, as they are not machines?
He said "yes," but she replied "no"
Norwegian NRK has already indicated a possible start date – October 19, 2025. They even promptly surveyed their top biathletes and managers. The star opinions diverged.
The first number of the women's team, Ingrid Tandrevold, was quite critical of the idea. She says she loves the sport, of course, but there are already too many starts in the international program.
Sturla Laegreid is also not thrilled about the potential additional start in the new season.
The national team coach is also not excited about yet another step to promote biathlon.
However, not everyone in Norway views the suggestion of an early season opening negatively.
The current leader of the World Cup standings, Johannes Boe, who announced that he would retire after the 2025/26 Olympic season, says he is willing to participate, as it would be his only chance to see if he still has the drive for elite biathlon.
Vetle Christiansen also believes that the concept of urban show races could bring about positive changes. However, his comments seem to be more focused on the audience.
Biathlon "Oktoberfest" still on hold
Champion reached out to IBU for a comment. The International Federation has already prepared a special release regarding this matter. The main biathlon governing body in the world acknowledges that such an idea exists, but there are also nuances.
So, it’s neither a "yes" nor a "no." How it will unfold – only time will tell.
It’s worth noting that the international federation has noticeably intensified its efforts to make biathlon even more popular lately. In pursuit of spectacle, they changed the rules for athlete distribution in starting groups, which received harsh criticism from leading athletes. In contrast, it has approval from those who are not among the top ranks, including Ukrainian athletes.
Remember, in Germany this September, there was a show race through the streets of Dresden. And at the end of December, the traditional Christmas race will take place in Gelsenkirchen, where the Ukrainian pair will also compete.