German Biathlon Relay Team Falls Behind at World Cup in Antholz

World Cup in Antholz: Biathlon Relay Team of Talents Struggles

World Cup in Antholz: The German women's biathlon team was left behind without their top athletes. The gap to the winning Swedish team was substantial.

On January 26, 2025, the Swedish women’s relay secured victory over the 4x6 kilometers with a time of 1:07:26.0, finishing ahead of Norway (+13.4 seconds) and France (+23.6 seconds).

The race became dramatic shortly before the finish line when Sweden's anchor leg runner Hanna Öberg collided with Norway's Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold, causing the Norwegian to fall. Despite the incident, Norway decided against filing a protest after the race.

Germany's Biathlon Team Struggles

The German team, which competed without World Cup leader Franziska Preuß and other key athletes, finished in eighth place (+3:24.7 minutes). Their performance was not surprising given recent circumstances; Preuß had requested an early departure due to fatigue from eight races in 17 days. Additionally, Selina Grotian had to forfeit her position due to a sore throat, casting a shadow over the lineup.

Relay Race Outcomes

Marlene Fichtner started strong with flawless shooting but ended her leg in 15th position after a refill at the standing stage. Sophia Schneider made up some ground but still found the gap to the leading teams growing.

Julia Kink, celebrating her 21st birthday on race day, shot well following some delays but ultimately handed off to Johanna Puff with an already two-minute deficit.

In conclusion, the German relay team's eighth place marked their weakest finish of the season, as they look ahead to the season highlight: the World Championships from February 12 to 23 in Lenzerheide, Switzerland.