Mixed Relay Disappointment for German Biathlon Team: "Self-Confidence is Lacking"

Mixed Relay Disappointment for German Biathlon Team: "Self-Confidence is Lacking"

At the conclusion of the World Cup in Pokljuka, the German mixed relay team struggled to keep up with the front runners. The team, comprised of Julia Tannheimer, Sophia Schneider, Danilo Riethmüller, and Philipp Nawrath, finished sixth, a full 1:03.6 minutes behind, after encountering difficulties with shooting under pressure.

Team member Sophia Schneider expressed her frustrations regarding her performance and the overall lack of self-confidence among the team, stating, "The self-confidence at the shooting range is lacking." This sentiment echoes the team's overall struggle to find their footing in prior events, having not secured any podium finishes in mixed events this season.

While the team secured a bronze in the World Championships in Lenzerheide, their performance in Pokljuka showed marked room for improvement. With Franziska Preuß resting for upcoming crucial events, the team faced added pressure to perform well.

Tannheimer started strong despite needing extra shots to reload but found her team trailing after Schneider's trip in the second leg, where she narrowly missed a penalty round. The results reflect ongoing challenges as they move into the final competition weekend of the winter series, with both men and women competing in sprints and relays at the legendary Holmenkollen.

Despite setbacks, Schneider remains hopeful for recovery and improvement, highlighting the need to prove themselves consistently in upcoming races.