IBU thanks outgoing Sports & Event Director Felix Bitterling

The International Biathlon Union (IBU) today thanked IBU Sports & Event Director Felix Bitterling for his significant contribution to the development of biathlon ahead of his move to the German Ski Association.

Bitterling is leaving the IBU after more than 12 years with the federation and will become Head of Biathlon at the German Ski Association from 1 April 2022.

The 44 year-old joined the IBU in 2009 and served as Project Coordinator Sport & Development and Race Director IBU Cup before becoming the IBU Sports and Events Director in 2018. In his time at the IBU he helped develop the event and competition rules in the IBU Technical Committee and oversaw the organization of IBU events from World Cup/World Championships, IBU Cup/Open European Championships to the newest event series Junior Cup/Youth & Junior World Championships. Recently he also played the leading role in creating the COVID-19 concepts, which were crucial to running IBU events safely and successfully over the last two seasons.

IBU President Olle Dahlin said:

“Felix is an integral member of the IBU’s management team and the embodiment of what our biathlon family stands for. Of course, we are sad to see Felix go and we had hoped that he would stay with us for many years to come. But we can also understand his decision and would like to thank him for all the excellent work he has done for the IBU over nearly 13years. He played a key role in establishing the IBU as a modern, trusted and sports-centred organisation over the past years. We wish him the very best in his new position with the German Ski Association and we are happy that his experience and know-how will be retained within the biathlon family at one of our strongest members in one of our core markets.”

Felix Bitterling said:

“After far more than a decade with the International Biathlon Union, I decided it was time to look for a new professional challenge after the end of the season. The idea of being able to play a leading role in the future biathlon development of my home association is very appealing to me. I am grateful to the IBU for the opportunities and to all my colleagues and friends I have made. Saying goodbye isn't easy for me, so I'm grateful that all the conversations I've had in this context have been characterized by great mutual appreciation and understanding. I am happy to still be working with the IBU in my new position and to remain a member of the biathlon family, which is something truly special.”

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