Severe Criticism of Biathlon Revolution by Erik Lesser

Hefty Criticism of Biathlon Revolution

There has been intense discussion over the controversial rule change in biathlon for weeks. Just before the start of the new season, former world champion Erik Lesser joins the conversation.

Erik Lesser expressed his opinion regarding the controversial new starting rule in biathlon.

As the new World Cup season approaches, Erik Lesser sharply criticizes the new starting rule which prevents top athletes from freely choosing their starting group for individual races, forcing them to start in the third group.

Lesser stated, “I would feel punished by this. I don't see the relevance; I do not understand the need for it.” In conversation with t-online, he clearly expressed his dissatisfaction.

The first competitions will commence on Saturday in Kontiolahti, Finland, but the new rule has been under scrutiny for weeks.

Active biathletes have also voiced their discontent with this change, stating that it feels like a federation imposing rules against the athletes’ wishes. “It’s always unfortunate when a governing body wants to push something through against the athletes,” explained Lesser.

New Biathlon Rule: Issues with Warming Up?

The IBU hopes that these rule adjustments will bring more excitement for television viewers. Lesser remarked, “It’s a commendable effort to try to make the sport more visible on TV.” However, he does not see a pressing need to change, stating, “The product biathlon works fine on television.”

Lesser expressed concerns that the new rule would hinder the top biathletes’ ability to warm up directly on the competition course, as that area will be occupied by the first two groups of starters.

Instead, they have to use designated warm-up rounds, which are not always ideal: “We’re talking about a warm-up round of 200 to 300 meters on flat ground. That has nothing to do with proper warm-up training.” He also noted his personal dislike for having to warm up on such “pseudo-warm-up rounds.”

Lesser retired from his biathlon career in 2022 and has been working as a TV expert for ARD since the 2022/23 season.