Debut of Relay Competitor Saves Norway from Failure – Takes Third Place

On December 1, 2024 at 18:53, the women's biathlon relay in Kontiolahti turned into a dramatic showdown. French favorite Julia Simon initially led but faltered on the final shooting round, requiring a penalty lap. This opened the door for Sweden's Elvira Öberg, who hit all her targets and surged to victory.

Simon seemed to struggle with cramps on the last lap, barely managing to fend off Norway's Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold at the finish line, stopping several times and visibly emotional.

Juni Arnekleiv performed well in Norway's first leg, sending her team off in fifth place, trailing France by 24 seconds at the first exchange. Although Karoline Knotten had to take a penalty lap during her leg after her first shooting, she maintained position until the next exchange.

The standout for Norway was world cup debutant Maren Kirkeeide on the third leg, who, despite missing one shot in the prone position, maintained accurate shots in standing, bringing Norway into second place, 28 seconds behind France at the final exchange. NRK expert Ola Lunde praised Kirkeeide, stating, "This is a fantastic relay debut for Kirkeeide. She has become much faster at the shooting range this year and has solid finishes. When she delivers like this, she deserves a permanent place on the relay team. Quite impressive."