Dropped from the World Cup opener — now biathlete Johannes Dale-Skjevdal gets a key Olympic chance in Hochfilzen

Norway’s biathlon federation announced its selections for the next World Cup round in Hochfilzen, confirming that Johannes Dale-Skjevdal is back on the men’s team. The 28‑year‑old was left out of the World Cup opener in Östersund after disappointing form at the national season start in Geilo, but he responded by winning three consecutive IBU Cup races, forcing his way back into the top squad.

With Olympic spots for Milano–Cortina 2026 in play this winter, the Hochfilzen races are described as an important opportunity for athletes to strengthen their case. “The level among the men is very high already at the start of the season. Competition for places is fierce, which is exactly how we want it,” said head coach Per Arne Botnan.

Vebjørn Sørum also returns to the men’s lineup after missing the Östersund weekend due to a back problem. Making way are Isak Leknes Frey—told he needed a top‑six in Sunday’s Östersund pursuit but finishing 10th—and Endre Strømsheim, whose 38th place in Sweden was his best of the weekend and left him deeply frustrated.

On the women’s side, Åsne Skrede will make her World Cup debut following strong performances both in the IBU Cup and at the Geilo season opener. The full Hochfilzen selections are:

Women: Marthe Kråkstad Johansen; Maren Hjelmeset Kirkeeide; Karoline Offigstad Knotten; Åsne Skrede; Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold; Marit Øygard.

Men: Sivert Guttorm Bakken; Johan‑Olav Smørdal Botn; Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen; Johannes Dale‑Skjevdal; Sturla Holm Lægreid; Vebjørn Sørum; Martin Uldal.

The announcement underscores how form in both the IBU Cup and World Cup is being weighed closely as Norway narrows its Olympic roster over the coming weeks.