German win, Italy’s absence and more: What happened at the Biathlon World Team Challenge

The traditional post‑Christmas Biathlon World Team Challenge returned to the Veltins‑Arena in Gelsenkirchen on 28 December, transforming Schalke 04’s football stadium into a compact biathlon course with a raucous crowd.

Germany celebrated its first victory at the WTC in nine years thanks to the pairing of Janina Hettich‑Walz and Justus Strelow. The event once again showcased its stadium spectacle format—short loops, high‑tempo relay exchanges, and a shooting range set in front of tens of thousands of fans.

Beyond the sporting result, the evening included an emotional tribute to Norway’s Sivert Bakken, the 27‑year‑old biathlete who passed away on 23 December. Athletes and spectators observed commemorations in his memory.

The article also highlights that Italy did not take part in this year’s edition. Attendance was announced as a sell‑out, underlining the continuing popularity of the made‑for‑TV exhibition that annually bridges the World Cup’s holiday break.