IBU President Olle Dahlin met with Chinese sports leaders to discuss biathlon’s growth, World Cup participation, and Para sports development during a productive visit to China.

The visit began with a meeting at the Winter Sports Administration Center of the General Administration of Sport of China, where President Dahlin met with Wang Li, Director General; Li Wenge, President of China Biathlon; Wang Zhao, Deputy Director of the Winter Sports Center (International Office); and Jiang Yang (Mike), Team Leader of China Biathlon. The discussions focused on the upcoming season, including China’s participation in the IBU World Cup and IBU Cup, underscoring the nation’s commitment to advancing in the sport.

A highlight of the trip was the meeting with the General Administration of Sport of China and the Chinese Olympic Committee (COC), where President Dahlin reconnected with Vice Minister Tong Lixin, an old friend from the 1998 Nagano Olympics, where both served as team leaders for China and Sweden, respectively. Joined by Ms. Song Xueying, Deputy Secretary General, the discussions centred on the development of biathlon in China and how the IBU can provide support to further elevate the sport’s profile and infrastructure in the country.

President Dahlin also visited the China Administration of Sports for Persons with Disabilities (CASPD), meeting with Director General Dong Xuemo and Deputy Director General Yong Zhijun. The visit included a tour of the CASPD Center, which boasts impressive facilities and resources dedicated to Para sports. Notably, the organization operates independently from the Sports Ministry, as all matters related to persons with disabilities—including education and sports—are managed under this specialized body.

This visit reinforced the IBU’s commitment to global development, inclusivity, and collaboration, paving the way for a promising future for biathlon in China.