Norwegian Star Karoline Knotten Excluded from Biathlon Team: ‘They are Lying’

Norwegian star Karoline Knotten has been startlingly excluded from the national biathlon team ahead of the upcoming Olympic season, despite being the second best Norwegian and finishing 14th overall in the World Cup rankings.

In an emotional response, Knotten revealed her feelings of betrayal, stating, "I no longer trust the coaches. I feel like they are lying to me," as reported by NRK. She received the news on Tuesday, which she described as shocking. In a constructive meeting at her home after the season, she felt their plans should be more transparent.

The team leadership indicated that the decision stemmed from a belief that Knotten did not fully support the training program. As the head coach Sverre Huber Kaas commented, the team needs complete commitment and they perceived a lack of it in Knotten’s case.

The current lineup for the Norwegian women's biathlon team for the 2025-26 season includes: - Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold
- Maren Hjelmeset Kirkeeide
- Ida Lien
- Juni Arnekleiv
- Marthe Kråkstad Johansen
- Ragnhild Femsteinevik (replacing Knotten)

This decision has raised significant interest and discussions within the sports community, reflecting the high stakes and pressures that come with competing at an elite level.