Sturla Holm Laegreid fulfilled his big dream of winning the Gasamt World Cup in biathlon last winter when he narrowly defeated Johannes Thingnes Bö. After the ski hunter icon’s retirement, the Norwegian sees three main competitors who now need to be beaten.
Top biathlete Sturla Holm Laegreid has been warned: After the retirement of superstar Johannes Thingnes Bö, the international competition expects even more chances to be involved in winning the big crystal ball in the World Cup winter of 2025/26.
The reigning title holder is primarily looking at three competitors: Tommaso Giacomel from Italy, Eric Perrot from France and Martin Uldal from his own national team.
“Tommy Giacomel is definitely someone to keep an eye on: He is young, improving and has great potential on his skis. He was already good last year and will continue to improve,” said Laegreid in an interview with the IBU World Federation. He rates Eric Perrot similarly: “A young, strong guy who actually has everything he needs. It will be difficult to compete against him, but I’m enjoying this competition.”
Laegreid doesn’t want to be stressed out so much
Compatriot Martin Uldal is a candidate for the future, but he already hinted at his potential last winter. “He has the speed on the skis and the interest in shooting,” said Laegreid.
The 28-year-old is heading into the Olympic season confidently, although he doesn’t want to put himself under pressure. “I’ve learned not to stress myself out so much. When something goes wrong while shooting or skiing, I tend to doubt everything. I have to be more self-confident and have more trust in my process,” is his motto: “The last few years have shown me above all that I can be good if I just stick with it and believe in myself.”