Viktor Brandt's honest words after the nightmare leg: "Yesterday was a dark day for me"

Viktor Brandt had a tough relay in Antholz yesterday but impressed in today's pursuit race with a personal best, finishing 18th and climbing 33 places. He stated, "Yesterday was a dark day for me. I was quite mentally down, pushing myself hard. But I'm very pleased to deliver a strong performance today."

Sweden's team started off challenging, facing a penalty loop early in the race which affected Brandt, but they ultimately secured a podium finish. In the pursuit, Brandt's effort was rewarded with a solid comeback performance.

The competition was won by Norwegian Sturla Holm Lægreid, with fellow Norwegian Tarjei Bö taking second place and Italian Tommaso Giacomel finishing third. Sebastian Samuelsson was the best Swedish performer of the day, finishing in ninth place, nearly two minutes behind the winner. Despite having the fastest skiing time, Martin Ponsiluoma missed six shots, reflecting on his struggle during the race and stating he needed to focus more on his shooting ability.

All Swedish results:

1. Samuelsson - 9th
2. Ponsiluoma - 13th
3. Nelin - 15th
4. Brandt - 18th
5. Nykvist - 22nd
6. Stefansson - 46th