At the Biathlon World Championships in Oberhof, the numerous fans along the route ensure a great party atmosphere. DSV icon Uschi Disl has now attracted attention with a special anecdote.
“I’ve heard stories of people wearing diapers so as not to lose their place in the stands,” quotes the Swedish tabloid “Aftonbladet” Disl, who now works as an expert at “Radiosport”.
When asked by the newspaper, the 52-year-old explained: “When I was active, I had a fan club and they were on the track day after day. Then it was important that the front ones didn’t lose their seats … and the trick was that they had diapers.”
Disl also emphasized how committed the German supporters are. “I don’t know if that also happens abroad, but the German fans love their biathlon,” said the eight-time world champion.
Biathlon Olympic champion raves about the atmosphere
There is a great atmosphere at the Biathlon World Championships in Oberhof these days. Up to 160,000 spectators are expected in the winter sports Mecca in Thuringia.
“I can go out on the track with a TV shirt an hour and a half before shooting, and there’s a lot going on there,” enthused TV expert Michael Rösch in an interview with “Eurosport”.
“From our commentary booth we have a slight view of the stadium and can see the Birxsteig: It’s so loud. It’s sick what’s going on there. The fans are so horny. On the Birxsteig the spectators are in rows of 15 or 20 and walk steeply,” explained the 2006 Olympic relay champion.
According to Rösch, the mood also affects the biathlon stars. “Anyone who doesn’t notice that should put their skis in the corner. I’ve always enjoyed it, especially up the Birxsteig. But that also harbors a danger, especially from a German point of view,” he said.