Germany’s women’s biathlon team earned six quota spots for the individual races at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Yet the federation has made a surprising choice: only five athletes will travel to Antholz.
A “pragmatic decision,” says the coaching staff
Sporting director Felix Bitterling explained the logic behind the move:
“The trip to Antholz is short — if we need a replacement, she can arrive within a few hours.”
“And with only four start bibs available per individual race, the sixth spot is unlikely to be used anyway. The only exception is the mass start, where all six could theoretically qualify if they earn enough points.”
The 2026 Games — split between Milan and Cortina — will not have a traditional central Olympic Village. The German women’s team will stay isolated in a small hotel in Antholz, away from the main Olympic venues.
“If there were a real Olympic Village atmosphere, we would bring all six. But as it is, this looks more like an extended World Cup stage than a true multi-sport event.”
Previous experience and a clear plan B
Bitterling added that a similar approach was used at the World Championships:
“Keeping an athlete on the bench with no realistic chance to start harms both her focus and the team dynamic. We prefer a tighter group, fully focused on performance.”
The decision was not easy:
“It’s difficult for the one who has to stay at home. But our goal is clear — arrive in Antholz in the best possible condition and fight for medals.”
