For Philipp Nawrath, the past season was the strongest of his career. He finished ninth in the Total Score, claimed three podiums, won Olympic Mixed Relay bronze, and came agonisingly close to an individual medal in Antholz 2026. How did he experience it—and what targets is he chasing next?

Biathlonworld: Philipp, how did you spend the first weeks of the off-season?

Philipp Nawrath: I’m currently doing a three-week placement with the criminal police in the Allgäu region. It’s part of my training with the state police. It’s especially exciting when I can accompany colleagues on operations like surveillance or searches. I’ve also already been involved in investigations into doping cases. At the same time, I keep training to stay fit. Because of my training, there isn’t much time for holidays this year, but that’s fine—I can definitely see myself staying with the police after my sports career.

BW: The 2025/2026 season was the most successful of your career so far. How did you experience it?

It was the best season of my career, and I look back fondly on the podium finishes and the Olympic medal. In December, it took me a bit to reach my top form, but in the final trimester I was consistently finishing in the Top 10. My goal was to win an Olympic medal, and I achieved that in the mixed relay. An individual medal would have been the icing on the cake—I came close in both the Individual and the Mass Start.

Of course, looking back, I think it could have worked out, especially since I raced in all events. But I don’t dwell on the missed medals. In the past, I was often over-motivated at major events, and I was able to overcome that in Antholz.

BW: Since February 2025, Tobias Reiter has been the coach of the German biathlon team. How is the cooperation with him?

PN: I’m very satisfied with our cooperation. Tobias Reiter is a structured and consistent coach. You always know where you stand with him, and he’s very strong when it comes to organisation.

BW: In an interview, Tobias Reiter said that a lack of belief in their own strength and self-confidence is the biggest issue for the German men’s team. How do you see that personally?

PN: He already addressed that internally at the end of the 2024/2025 season, saying he was surprised that we didn’t show more confidence after the World Championships in Lenzerheide 2025, where we all won medals. For me personally, confidence comes from performance, and over the past two years our team hasn’t always shown what would have been possible. But I’m not a fan of being egoistic or making sensational statements. Confidence and mental strength are always key in shooting. It also requires a supportive environment and good communication within the team.

BW: Do you feel confident when you approach the shooting range?

PN: I can think of many races where I looked forward to shooting and knew what I was capable of. But there were also some—especially in difficult conditions—where I felt uncertain. Wind often means chaos for me.

BW: The Olympics were the main focus last season—for the public, the media, and the athletes. Is that too distracting?

PN: The Olympics are special not just for fans and journalists, but for us athletes as well. I was asked about them a lot beforehand, but it didn’t bother me. If you become an Olympic champion, many more people know you. I’m not recognised by everyone on the street, but I’ve definitely gained more followers on social media. Even without an individual Olympic medal, I feel appreciated for my performances.

BW: After the Olympics, there are often changes in teams, coaching staff, and federations. How do you see your role within the team?

PN: I don’t have a special role in the team, and I want to contribute through my performances—that won’t change. I think it’s good that responsibility is shared across several people and that everyone contributes. I attend all training camps and continue to train at the base in Ruhpolding. Most of the team is based in Oberhof.

BW: Looking ahead to the next season, what are your goals?

PN: I want to be in top form for the peak event in Otepaa and fight for medals. The course suits me well, so I see that as a realistic opportunity. For the whole season, it’s important for me to deliver consistent performances.

BW: What is that one percent that will make you a regular podium finisher?

PN: I think it’s a good mix of confidence, composure, and aggressiveness. If I can manage to stand at the start relaxed and still have that edge, even more is possible.