Teammate’s anger after Bakken’s death: “Anti‑vaxxers are exploiting this”

Norwegian biathlon star Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen has criticized the wave of rumors and theories spreading after the death of his teammate Sivert Guttorm Bakken.

Bakken, 27, was found dead on December 23 in his hotel room in Italy. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

According to the Norwegian federation, Bakken was wearing a high‑altitude (hypoxic) mask when he was found. He had also previously suffered heart problems that arose in connection with receiving a COVID vaccine. These facts, combined with the lack of a confirmed cause of death, have led to widespread speculation on social media and in comment sections.

“It’s so many people speaking without having any knowledge,” Christiansen told VG. “Both anti‑vaccine activists who are now exploiting the situation and those blaming altitude simulation—without us knowing much yet.”

An investigation is ongoing, and, according to VG, a preliminary autopsy report is expected at the start of the week. “Could there be an underlying factor that an autopsy can answer? Will we ever get a definitive answer? I want to wait to say anything until everything is on the table,” Christiansen added.

The Norwegian biathlon community remains in mourning, while urging patience and restraint until official medical findings are released.