Defending World Cup Winner Out for the Season

Defending World Cup Winner Out for the Season

The Italian star, Lisa Vitozzi, has officially concluded her season due to injury challenges, as confirmed by the Italian biathlon federation in a press release. She first encountered back issues in the autumn and has not participated in any World Cup races this season.

In consultation with her medical team, Vitozzi has decided not to risk a hasty return and will instead focus on preparing for the upcoming Olympic Games in Milan-Cortina next year. "I had hoped to join the season, but as I resumed training at increased intensity, my body couldn't handle the workload," Vitozzi stated in the press release.

The next event for the biathlon elite is the World Cup in Oberhof, where the women's sprint is set to take place. Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold is also making a return following her heart surgery last December, ready to compete for the first time since the events in Kontiolahti.

With hopes of a strong comeback, the biathlon community looks forward to her performance as she and other athletes prepare for challenges ahead.