The end of 2024 and the start of 2025 saw an action-packed biathlon season across four regions, as athletes from various countries competed in a series of regional events under the IBU banner. From Slovenia to Canada, Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, and Sweden, these competitions showcased the dedication and talent of over 1,000 athletes, marking an exciting chapter in the winter biathlon calendar.

FESA Biathlon Alpen Cup | Pokljuka, Slovenia | 20–22 December 2024

The opening stage of the FESA Biathlon Alpen Cup in Pokljuka welcomed over 320 athletes from seven nations—Slovenia, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Spain, Great Britain, and Brazil. The event attracted competitors of all levels, underscoring the growing popularity of biathlon in the region. Spectators enjoyed an intense weekend of racing, setting a high standard for the season ahead.

Regional Event Prince George | Prince George, Canada | 3–7 January 2025

Prince George hosted its Regional Event with more than 80 athletes from Canada, Great Britain, and Norway competing in sprint, pursuit, and mass start races. Excellent snow conditions, coupled with outstanding volunteer support, contributed to a successful and well-organized competition.

Balkan Cup | Bansko, Bulgaria | 8–11 January 2025

The Balkan Biathlon Cup in Bansko, Bulgaria, saw nearly 50 athletes from six nations—Bulgaria, Croatia, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Greece—participate in sprint and mass start races. The event was well-organized, with natural snow conditions ranging from 50 to 100 cm, ensuring a fair and competitive environment.

Full results of Regional Event - Balkan Cup, Bansko, BUL

FESA Biathlon Alpen Cup | Hochfilzen, Austria | 8–11 January 2025

The second stage of the FESA Biathlon Alpen Cup took place in Hochfilzen, Austria, featuring almost 150 athletes from Austria, Switzerland, Slovenia, Great Britain, and the USA. The competition included individual races on Saturday, followed by sprint races on Sunday, delivering an action-packed weekend of high-level youth and junior biathlon performances.

Baltic Biathlon Cup | Haanja, Estonia | 17–19 January 2025

The second stage of the Baltic Biathlon Cup in Haanja, Estonia, brought together nearly 250 athletes from Estonia, Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania. Despite challenging conditions with above-freezing temperatures, the organizing committee managed the event smoothly. The weekend featured sprint races on Saturday and mass start races on Sunday.

SWE Cup Lima | Lima, Sweden | 17–19 January 2025

The SWE Cup in Lima, Sweden, hosted nearly 200 athletes from Sweden, Norway, and Greenland. The event featured individual and mass start races, providing exciting competition in a region known for its strong biathlon tradition.

With a successful start to the year, these regional events have set the stage for an exhilarating biathlon season, highlighting both emerging talent and seasoned competitors.

Stay tuned for more Regional Winter Events

Photo:Taavi Nagel