Biathlon World Cup Overview
The International Biathlon Union has unveiled the schedule for the upcoming 2025-2026 BMW IBU World Cup. The season will commence on November 29, 2025, in Östersund, Sweden, and will conclude on March 15, 2026, in Holmenkollen, Norway. This season is set to feature nine stages, including the much-anticipated Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Season Kickoff in Östersund
The opening events will take place in Östersund, where athletes will compete in both mixed relay and individual races. Following this, the competition will transition to Hochfilzen, Austria, and then to Annecy-Le Grand Bornand, France. These initial stages are known for their challenging courses and enthusiastic crowds, setting a competitive tone for the season.
Resuming After the Holidays
After a break for the holidays, the World Cup will resume in January at Pokljuka, Slovenia. This venue is noted for its high altitude and unpredictable weather, presenting unique challenges for the athletes. The circuit will then proceed to Nove Mesto Na Morave in the Czech Republic, marking the end of January. This location will replace Antholz-Anterselva, which will host the biathlon events for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics scheduled from February 6 to 22.
Olympic Highlights
The Olympic Games will serve as a significant highlight of the season, with biathlon events taking place in the scenic Antholz-Anterselva region of the Italian Alps. This provides athletes with a prestigious platform to compete for Olympic medals in a world-class setting.
Final Stages and Ticket Sales
Following the Olympic competitions, the World Cup will continue in March, starting with Kontiolahti, Finland, known for its wooded terrain that tests the skills of biathletes. The next stop will be Otepää, Estonia, recognized for its friendly atmosphere and technical tracks. The season will conclude in Holmenkollen, Norway, with mass start events that will bring the season to a close.
While detailed competition schedules will be provided in the spring of 2025, the organizing committees are already preparing for ticket sales, expected to begin this winter. This will allow fans to plan their attendance at various stages of the competition.
The diverse venues, inclusion of the Olympic Games, and a variety of events promise a season filled with challenges and memorable experiences for both athletes and fans.
