Despite all the advances from the competition and the Slovenian federation, biathlon shooting star Anamarija Lampic has decided not to take part in the cross-country skiing world championships. The 27-year-old announced this on Monday via her Instagram account.
“Ok, the situation is like this,” Lampic opened her Instagram post: “I’ve arrived at the site of my first biathlon world championship, which I’m really looking forward to, although my illness almost prevented me from doing it.” She will now use “every second” to “live and learn” at the World Cup Biathlon, the 27-year-old confirmed.
“At the same time,” added the Slovenian, “I’ll tell you that this is my ONLY World Cup this season.” She will not take part in the Nordic World Ski Championships in her home country, wrote Lampic, whose switch to biathlon severely weakened the Slovenian cross-country skiing team.
Finally, the biathlon newcomer thanked the Slovenian association for their trust. In this context, Lampic also indicated that the cross-country chapter is probably closed to her forever.
“It was a great honor for me to represent the colors of the Slovenian national team. At the same time, I look forward to further cooperation with the association in a new discipline. Thank you for your understanding,” wrote the Slovenian, who only started biathlon before the current season changed.
The Slovenian cross-country coach Ola Vigen Hattestad recently fueled rumors about her possible participation in the Nordic World Championships in Planica. He told the Swedish newspaper “Expressen” with regard to Lampic’s possible comeback: “We can nominate for the World Cup by Monday. We don’t want to say anything about it until then. I won’t say any more about it either. There is a process going on at the moment you can interpret it however you like.”
And Lampic’s former cross-country rivals were already looking forward to their comeback. “She is more than welcome,” said Sweden’s Emma Ribom. Linn Svahn was also excited about the Slovenian’s possible return, saying: “It would be great fun.”