Loop One Festival expands to two days of elite racing as ticket sales launch for 2026 edition
The International Biathlon Union (IBU) has announced that ticket sales for the expanded second edition of the Loop One Festival will begin this week, as the innovative urban biathlon event prepares to return to Munich’s Olympic Park bigger and better than ever.
From 16-18 October 2026, the Loop One Festival will once again transform the iconic Olympic Park into a multi-day celebration of biathlon, sport and entertainment, but this year, the world’s best biathletes will compete in fast-paced Super Sprint over two days, giving fans even more opportunities to experience elite biathlon in this unique urban setting.
Access to the festival area and the entire course will remain free of charge, allowing fans to get closer to their favourite biathlon stars as well enjoy the wide range of activities the festival has to offer, from youth competitions and interactive Biathlon for All experiences to unforgettable live entertainment.
Only the grandstand seating and standing area at the shooting range will be ticketed for those who are looking to get the best view of the decisive moments of competition. Ticket prices start from €22, with discounted bundle tickets available for both competition days.
Fans who purchased tickets for last year’s inaugural edition will receive exclusive access to a pre-sale starting on 17 March, before the public ticket sale opens on 19 March.
Elite athletes will take to the course on Saturday, 17 October, with qualification races followed by a final in the afternoon. The programme will also feature Para Biathlon competitions, underlining the sport’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
The action continues on Sunday, 18 October, when a series of qualification heats will lead into the decisive finals, where the world’s best athletes will battle head-to-head in front of thousands of spectators.
The inaugural festival demonstrated the strong potential of the urban festival concept to reach new audiences. Event analysis showed that the Munich crowd was younger and more diverse than at traditional winter events, with many spectators attending their first biathlon event.
IBU Sport & Event Director Daniel Böhm said:
“The response to the first Loop One Festival exceeded all our expectations. Seeing tens of thousands of fans experience biathlon in the heart of Munich confirmed that this innovative format has enormous potential for our sport.
“For the second edition we are taking the next step by expanding the elite competition programme to two days, meaning fans will be able to watch even more world-class biathlon throughout the weekend. We are excited to invite fans to once again be part of this unique urban biathlon celebration in Munich.”
Further details on the festival programme, musical performances and participating athletes will be announced in the coming months. For more updates, follow the Loop One Festival website and IG account.
Photos: IBU/Manzoni, Yevenko