Building on the momentum of its debut edition, International Biathlon Day returned on 30 May 2026 with record participation, bringing biathlon and para biathlon to thousands of people around the world. More than 30 National Federations hosted activities ranging from first-time try-outs and master classes to competitions, introducing an estimated 10,000 participants to the sport.

As a key initiative of the IBU’s Biathlon 4 All programme, International Biathlon Day continued to make biathlon more accessible, fun and welcoming for young people, families and newcomers.

France and Italy: Bringing biathlon to new audiences

France launched the first stage of its new Biathlon Run National Tour in Rumilly, transforming a rugby stadium into a biathlon arena with races, relays and a 22-lane shooting range. In Italy, “Biathlon Meets Giro d’Italia” in Aviano attracted around 170 participants, including 150 children and young people, who tried laser shooting, agility exercises and relay competitions. Olympic medallist Dominik Windisch and national team athlete Nicola Romanin joined the celebrations, highlighting both countries’ efforts to introduce biathlon to new audiences.

Estonia and Ukraine: Community and teamwork at the heart

Estonia’s Biathlon 4 All event paired recreational participants with national team athletes in mixed relay teams, combining kick-bike racing, shooting challenges and penalty loops. In Ukraine, more than 100 participants gathered in Kyiv for a family festival where children and parents competed side by side. Opened by Olympic champion Olena Pidrushna, the event celebrated teamwork, participation and the strong community spirit of biathlon.

Kazakhstan and Spain: Biathlon for everyone

Kazakhstan organised family races across six regions, bringing together 60 teams and more than 550 spectators. In Spain, 35 young participants and their families discovered biathlon in Vielha, many for the first time. Both events highlighted the inclusive nature of the sport, encouraging participation regardless of age, experience or ability.

Slovenia: In the heart of the capital Ljubljana

In Slovenia, a Biathlon Circuit in front of Ljubljana’s Odiseja cinema challenged visitors to test their speed and accuracy before taking on members of the national team in a live showdown.

Sweden brought biathlon to new audiences during the Göteborgsvarvet running race in Gothenburg, while Switzerland integrated activities into the Special Olympics National Games in Zug and the Youth Shooting Festival in Chur. South Korea also joined the celebration for the first time, marking another step in the global growth of the initiative.

To support the expansion of the event, the IBU provided dedicated funding to 26 National Federations, helping enhance event delivery, promotional activities, content creation and social media campaigns.

As a result, International Biathlon Day 2026 reached further than ever before, continuing to strengthen biathlon’s global community.

Photo: IBU Pool