First in “her” Östersund: Wierer, the champion who still moves fans

Dorothea Wierer launched the last season of her career in the best possible way: a victory in Östersund, the venue where she has taken the most wins of her career (six).

Despite saying on the eve of the race that she "didn’t feel well," Wierer—well known for her perfectionism and occasional self‑doubt—delivered a champion’s performance in the first individual of the season. She combined excellent skiing form with her trademark fast, precise shooting to win by a margin of just three tenths of a second over Finland’s Leinamo.

The finish stirred strong emotions among her coaches, Italy’s staff, and fans. The article frames this result as a testament to resilience: after a 2024 season derailed by health issues and an early shutdown that even made her consider retirement, and another complicated year afterwards, she chose to continue. This autumn she appears transformed, with outstanding physical form and attention to detail.

From December 2015 to December 2025—spanning her 1st to 17th career victories—Östersund has bookended a decade at the top. Even if she keeps a low profile, rivals know they will have to reckon with her again, especially at her beloved Anterselva, where she has so often thrived.