After the end of the BMW IBU World Cup Season 2025-2026, many National Federations held their National Championships to conclude the biathlon season. Bukovel hosted the final competitions of the season in Ukraine and IBU President Olle Dahlin used the opportunity to attend and distribute reallocated World Championship medals to two members of the Ukrainian Men's Relay team 2011.

Dahlin’s visit to Bukovel underlined the IBU’s continued support for the Ukrainian biathlon community, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. By being present on-site, the IBU President not only recognized the athletes’ performances but also showed solidarity with the wider biathlon family in Ukraine, including coaches, officials, and volunteers who have worked to keep the sport active under difficult circumstances. After Serhiy Semenov received his reallocated medal in Hochfilzen last winter, it was Olexander Bilanenko's and Serhiy Sednev's turn to receive their rightful silver medals of the World Championships Men's Relay 2011 from IBU President Olle Dahlin.

In the Sprint competitions, Vitalii Mandzyn and Oleksandra Merkushyna once again underlined their strong form, both securing victories to continue an impressive run of results throughout the season. Their consistent performances have made them standout athletes this winter across multiple series - Dahlin presented their medals.

On the same day, Olena Pidhrushna and Vita Semerenko celebrated a farewell to their long, successful careers with plenty of fans in Bukoval - the two Olympic champions did a final loop of honour and got to share the moment with many people who joined and supported them on their successful biathlon journeys.

Pictures: Yeva Martynenko