#1 Franziska Preuss

Until proven otherwise, Preuss as the reigning Yellow Bib tops the list. She is coming off a career-defining 2024/25 with five victories, ten additional podiums, and her first individual IBU World Championships Gold medal. Although Oslo was a nail biter, Preuss controlled her own destiny all season, never faltering. The shooting range exemplified the 31-year-old’s amazingly even season. She either shot clean or had a single penalty in 16 of the 21 World Cup and 4 IBU WCH individual competitions, for a career-best 92%.

Despite years of health struggles, Preuss’ mental game was the difference maker. “I never lost the passion for this sport and the belief in my potential.” Her hand injury this fall should have little effect on her season since she continued with much of her regular training. As long as she is healthy, Preuss remains the woman to beat.

#3 Lou Jeanmonnot

Jeanmonnot was on the verge of winning the Total Score before her unfortunate fall coming into the Holmenkollen Stadium. Finishing second twice in consecutive seasons proves her potential for the top spot. In many years, Jeanmonnot’s eight victories would have been enough to end the season in Yellow but not 2024/25. The top women on the deep French team is speedy and shoots within a hair of Preuss’ numbers. She nipped Vittozzi by .8 seconds in the Blink Super Sprint and later claimed a sprint/pursuit double at the French Summer Champs in Arcon. Everything points to another big season for Jeanmonnot.

#4 Elvira Oeberg

Oeberg won three mass starts last season while finishing 4th in the Total Score. Missing Antholz probably cost her a higher TS finish. The Swede is probably the strongest on the tracks of the top five women, a skill she uses frequently transforming an average range day into a top result. Elvira must shoot consistently well to challenge for the big Crystal Globe. Any day she matches Preuss or Vittozzi on the range sets her up for victory.

#5 Suvi Minkkinen

Minkkinen came from literally nowhere last season, jumping from 42nd in 2024 to 7th in the 2025 World Cup Total Score. Three podiums and an IBU WCH Bronze medals she never imagined, especially the medal. “My goal was to finish some race in the top 6…I was dreaming to get a medal but to actually do it, I don't know if I truly believed in it.”

Much of her success came from a personalized training plan, “3 months in high altitude during the summer; my body reacts well when I train in altitude. I'm trying to make competing in altitude little bit easier for myself.” Minkkinen did the same this summer, showing last season was no fluke with a solid fifth place at Loop One. The Finn might not overpower her rivals, but her talent will keep them on their toes all season.