The IBU today announced that the iconic biathlon venues of Kontiolahti (FIN) and Oestersund (SWE) have officially submitted applications to host the World Biathlon Championships 2031.

Both candidates have distinguished track records in delivering world-class biathlon events, guaranteeing athletes the highest level of conditions in 2031. As established fixtures on the World Cup circuit, both venues have earned the honour of hosting the season opener in recent years: Kontiolahti in 2020, 2022 and 2024, and Oestersund in 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025 – demonstrating their consistent reliability at the pinnacle of the sport. Kontiolahti last welcomed the World Championships in 2015, with Oestersund hosting most recently in 2019.

Following the submission of their applications, an Evaluation Commission will review the applications before compiling a report for the IBU Executive Board (EB). A technical evaluation will be undertaken to assess the hosting suitability and infrastructure of each candidate as well as an onsite inspection of both venues.

Both candidates will have the opportunity to present to the IBU EB on 17 September, who will then make a recommendation to the IBU Congress. The IBU Congress will hear presentations from both candidates during the session on 17-20 September in Berchtesgaden, GER. The Congress will vote on the EB's recommendation to select the host on 18 September.

Representatives from the two candidates will also attend the annual Organising Committee (OC) Meeting on 17-18 June, in Tartu, EST, where IBU event organisers gather to exchange best practices, review current developments and look ahead to the coming seasons.

Photo: IBU