The International Biathlon Union (IBU) Executive Board met this week ahead of the 2025/2026 season to discuss the latest preparations and review progress on the ongoing implementation of Target 2030.

The EB received detailed updates on the inaugural Loop One Festival, an exciting event held in Munich’s Olympic Park on 18/19 October that will transform the traditional season opener. Moving from the mountains to the city, the Loop One Festival will create new opportunities for the IBU to connect with loyal fans and newcomers to the sport.

Significant time was dedicated by the EB to reviewing the implementation progress of Target 2030, the IBU's comprehensive strategic roadmap that received approval from the IBU Congress last September. The EB assessed milestones achieved and outlined next steps to ensure the organisation remains on track to meet its long-term objectives under this transformative plan.

The EB also focused on preparations for the upcoming winter season. As an Olympic year, expectations are high to build on last season’s record-breaking success and deliver an unforgettable showcase of biathlon. A report was delivered on preparations across the Organising Committees as well as for Milano Cortina 2026 where biathlon will take place at the iconic and proven Antholz venue.

The IBU Presidents' meeting was held virtually also this week as Senior Leadership from the 55 National Federations (NFs) gathered to receive important updates and discuss ways to strengthen biathlon’s global development.

The meeting represents an important opportunity for the IBU to share comprehensive updates while receiving valuable feedback and insights from NF leaders. The collaboration and collective action of the whole IBU family is critical in order to innovate and deliver a stronger future.

The meeting featured constructive and engaged discussions across each of the Target 2030 strategic objectives. The IBU presented detailed updates on work undertaken since the strategy's implementation in September 2024 and outlined comprehensive action plans for the year ahead, complete with clear objectives, strategies, and initiatives.

Key themes included:

• Empowering Our Federations – with particular focus on upskilling NFs through the IBU Academy and delivering targeted development support initiatives.

• Innovating the Future of Biathlon – by transforming the sport into a safer, more sustainable, resource-efficient, and future-proof discipline that can adapt to evolving global challenges.

• Extending Our Reach – evaluating opportunities across digital marketing, international promotion, and enhanced content generation to broaden biathlon's appeal and accessibility worldwide.

• Closing the Competition Gap –through strategic planning toolkits, expert support programmes, mentorship opportunities, and NF development forums designed to level the playing field.

• Implementing Good Governance and Integrity – by building a shared culture and developing a clear governance roadmap for NFs ensuring biathlon is safe, fairer and more sustainable.

• Sustainability Leadership 2025-2030 – ensuring biathlon remains a leader in sustainability through concrete action, strategic partnerships, and climate adaptation.

The meeting renewed IBU’s commitment to work collaboratively towards achieving Target 2030 objectives and strengthening biathlon's position as a leading international winter sport.

Photo: IBU