German Biathlon Star Discusses Future Plans and New Challenges

Biathlon Star Reflects on Possible Career End

Johannes Kühn, one of Germany's top biathletes, recently hinted at the possibility of retirement in a revealing interview. At 32 years old, he is not only the longest-serving athlete of the German Ski Association (DSV) following Benedikt Doll's retirement but also carries the weight of high expectations as last season's top German performer in the World Cup.

"It is not our goal to find a direct replacement for Benni. We are tackling this together as a team," Kühn explained while discussing the evolving dynamics within the German men's team. "Our squad includes many seasoned athletes of similar age, and everyone contributes their perspectives, including myself. I readily accept responsibility and strive to bring out the best in our team."

Aiming for the Olympics Before Retirement?

As one of the most experienced competitors in the sport, Kühn has been competing in the World Cup for twelve years. His Olympic journey includes participation in the 2018 and 2022 Winter Games, and he celebrated his only World Cup victory in December 2021.

Looking ahead, he’s focused not just on the coming World Cup season, which kicks off on November 30 in Kontiolahti, but also on the 2026 Winter Olympics in Turin. "Having taken part in two Olympic games, I feel the true Olympic experience eluded me in Pyeongchang and Beijing. The upcoming games in the Alpine region are particularly appealing. If I can stay healthy and secure my spot internally, I aspire to participate. After that, I might only continue for one more season, but that decision will come later," Kühn reflected, hinting at the potential for retirement.

New Sponsorship for the Season

Kühn is currently undergoing rigorous training for the upcoming biathlon season, with a string of good fortune on his side—no long-term illnesses or injuries so far. "I've been fortunate—neither illness nor injury has sidelined me," he noted. Additionally, he is excited to start this season with a fresh sponsorship for the first time in years, having chosen to move on after his contract with Fischer concluded last season.

"Madshus has introduced a new binding system for skating techniques, and I've heard positive things from our technical team about it. My teammates Roman Rees and Benedikt Doll, who have also worked with Madshus, gave me excellent feedback. Overall, their input helped me make the decision to partner with Madshus."

Criticism of Rule Changes

Kühn is also actively involved in the athletes' committee, where he has expressed concerns about a recently approved and controversial rule change regarding start groups. Like many of his fellow competitors, he remains critical of these proposals. "We are in active discussions with the IBU, hoping to reach a compromise that works for everyone," he explained.

The athlete from Passau sees equal opportunity as being jeopardized. "While some races may provide similar conditions for all, that isn’t always the case. This change could significantly impact our sport. What’s more concerning is that ideal conditions for warming up aren’t consistently available. Certain venues lack sufficient warm-up areas, putting athletes starting in higher groups at a distinct disadvantage."

The new regulations will be trialed during the four World Cup weeks in November and December, with further decisions to be made based on the outcomes of these tests.