Bitter: Biathlon Kick-off Without German Star!

Biathlon-Auftakt ohne DSV-Routinier

Roman Rees opened the last biathlon season with a win, but was significantly set back by COVID-19. Now, following another setback, he is missing from the squad for the start in Kontiolahti.

Roman Rees fehlt beim Auftakt zum Biathlon-Weltcup

© IMAGO/Bildbyran

Roman Rees opened the last biathlon season with a win, but was significantly set back by COVID-19. Now, following another setback, he is missing from the squad for the start in Kontiolahti.

Led by Franziska Preuß and without veteran Roman Rees, the German biathlon team will begin the World Cup.

The 31-year-old Rees had trained well over the summer, said DSV sports director Felix Bitterling. However, before the qualification competitions in Vuokatti (Finland), Rees became ill and is therefore out of shape. He will focus on the IBU Cup to build his fitness.

Rees started the previous season dramatically with a World Cup win and even wore the yellow jersey for a short time. However, the 2019 relay silver medalist was hit hard by a COVID-19 infection thereafter.

Biathlon-Auftakt: Franziska Preuß als Anführerin

The German Ski Association (DSV) nominated twelve athletes for the races in Kontiolahti, starting on November 30 with the single mixed relay.

Alongside Preuß, who is planning a restart after ongoing health issues, Vanessa Voigt is also part of the women's team. The 27-year-old had taken a break during the summer due to mental health issues but is fit for the season start. Additionally, Johanna Puff, Julia Tannheimer, Julia Kink, and Selina Grotian will also compete in Kontiolahti.

The men’s team in Kontiolahti will consist of Johannes Kühn, Justus Strelow, Philipp Nawrath, Philipp Horn, David Zobel, and Danilo Riethmüller. Veteran Benedikt Doll retired after last winter.