New Biathlon King: "I Did Everything to Avoid People"

New Biathlon King: "I Did Everything to Avoid People"

Sturla Holm Laegreid has snatched the big crystal globe away from Johannes Thingnes Bö - and he has made significant sacrifices in doing so. The 28-year-old secured the overall World Cup title by winning the pursuit at the Holmenkollen in Oslo.

The keys to his success were not just strength and precision on the shooting range, but also a strict isolation to ensure he was 100% fit. Over the final stretch of the season, Laegreid decided to detach himself from the Norwegian team hotel to avoid the risk of an infection that could cost him crucial points in the duel with Bö.

"I have lived alone, cooked my own meals, and haven’t gone to the supermarket since I got home on Monday," Laegreid told NRK. "I have tried to do everything in my power to avoid people and illnesses. Even yesterday when I was signing autographs, I wore a face mask in case someone in the stands was coughing a little."

Bö, who has previously secured five big crystal globes, understands Laegreid’s strategy, though he feels it was extreme. "It was very clever. I would have done the same if I were in his place. In the hotel where we stayed, there was freedom of movement. Many athletes, many 'normal' people living there, an open buffet and everything."

After his decisive victory on Saturday, Laegreid was finally able to embrace his girlfriend Sandra Arnesen, who had not been able to get close to him for some time. "It was a while since I felt that. I don’t even remember when it was last," said Laegreid's girlfriend as she celebrated his win.

Biathlon World Championships 2025 on SPORT1

Also, check out the live ticker and medal table from the 2025 Biathlon World Championships on SPORT1.

For more updates on the 2025 Biathlon World Championships and results, visit Sport1 Biathlon.