Biathlon – Franziska Preuß Delivers a Picture-Perfect Race for World Championship Gold

Biathlete Franziska Preuß emerged as the new pursuit world champion at the Biathlon World Championships in Lenzerheide, winning gold after a picture‐perfect performance on February 16, 2025. The 30‐year-old, already on the World Cup leader board, delivered an outstanding race with a flawless shooting performance, leaving her rivals far behind in the final shooting rounds.

After earning bronze in the mixed relay and a dramatic silver in the sprint, Preuß was in peak form for the pursuit race. She built an impressive lead, especially after the fourth shooting bout where her competitors, including Sweden’s Elvira Öberg and France’s Justine Braisaz-Bouchet, faltered by incurring penalty laps. Preuß celebrated the moment by stating, "It was the perfect race. The final round was a delight. I am really proud of myself. I will never forget this."

The article goes on to describe how Preuß’s consistent execution – from her explosive skiing to her error-free shooting – set her apart from the field. While her nearest rivals experienced extra penalty laps, she maintained her advantage and finished the race in a class of her own. Additional commentary from experts highlighted her mental strength and the high level of competition at this international event.