The Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof will take place without the Norwegian overall leader Johan-Olav Botn.
The 26-year-old canceled his participation in the competitions from January 8th to 11th. Botn, who is at the top by more than 100 points over Frenchman Eric Perrot, is ill, the Norwegian association said, without giving further details.
“I would have really liked to take part, but I have to take care of my health and so this is the only decision I can make,” Botn said, according to the statement. His compatriot Sturla Holm Lägreid, sixth overall and winner of the 2024/25 World Cup, has to pass for the same reasons. The duo will be replaced by Sverre Aspenes and Martin Nevland.
Mourning for deceased Bakken
The Norwegians are challenged in Oberhof for the first time since the death of their teammate Sivert Guttorm Bakken. Bakken (27) was found dead in his hotel room at the Lavazè altitude camp in South Tyrol on December 23rd and was wearing an altitude training mask. According to the family’s law firm, results on the cause of death are expected no later than March.
“This weekend will be different for all of us. The most important thing now is to look after each other and ensure that the athletes have a safe and enjoyable experience after a busy Christmas,” said Norway’s team manager Per Arne Botnan.
Botn had discovered his teammate’s body. “I was completely shocked and panicked,” he reported in an interview with the Norwegian television station TV2: “I saw that he was completely lifeless and pale as a sheet. I realized that he was dead. It was a state of shock in which you don’t feel anything, but you try to help.”