"Perfect scenario": Preuß rival rejoices before biathlon showdown

"Perfect scenario": Preuß rival rejoices before biathlon showdown

Despite a bitter setback for Franziska Preuß in the pursuit event, sports director Felix Bitterling remains positive about a successful outcome for her in the fight for the overall cup against rival Lou Jeanmonnot, who is currently leading.

Bitterling stated, "The mandate is clear, she has to beat Lou," after Preuß lost her yellow jersey on Saturday. He reassured her, saying, "I think that's a very simple approach. She has proven many times that she can do it."

Lou Jeanmonnot, also celebrating her win in the pursuit event, expressed her confidence: “It’s the simplest way for me now to manage to keep the jersey. This is a sort of perfect scenario that is emerging now," she told L’Equipe. She added that she feels "very proud" of her performance on Saturday.

As for the mass start scheduled for noon, Felix Bitterling emphasizes it is crucial: "If Preuß wins her fourth victory of the season, she would be the sixth German overall World Cup winner following notable names like Martina Glagow and Laura Dahlmeier."

He reiterated reassurance for Preuß with, "Five points are nothing. Don't make the hole deeper than it needs to be."

This upcoming race will not only be a test for individual skills but also pivotal in the overall rankings for the World Cup.

With a history of fierce competition, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next in this biathlon showdown as Preuß aims to unseat Jeanmonnot and reclaim the top spot.