Biathlon World Cup Kicks Off in Hochfilzen Amid New Shooting Technique Buzz

The Biathlon World Cup's next event is set to begin this Friday in Hochfilzen, Austria, with men's and women's sprint races scheduled for 11:25 AM and 2:15 PM respectively. Fans can watch both events live on ARD and Eurosport, with additional streaming available via DAZN. The German team will be competing without Franziska Preuß and Selina Grotian, who are sidelined due to illness.

Sport Director Felix Bitterling emphasized Hochfilzen's significance as a venue where Germany has historically enjoyed considerable success. He also highlighted the complicated weather conditions expected, with mild daytime temperatures and freezing nights, underscoring the importance of optimal equipment preparation for the athletes.

Alongside the event details, a noteworthy development in biathlon technique is capturing attention. Norwegian Martin Uldal, only 24, introduced a revolutionary shooting method last winter, slashing shooting times to under 13 seconds by repositioning magazines closer to the magazine well for quicker access. This technique requires minimal hand movement, allowing athletes to load their rifles faster while maintaining safety protocols.

Austrian biathlete Simon Eder praised the efficiency of the new grip, stating, "The way is now extremely short." Left-handed shooters, like Eder himself, have adapted by switching to a right-hand dominant technique. Austrian Lisa Hauser, another adopter, credited the method for her recent victory in a World Cup pursuit race in Östersund, citing a desire for fresh motivation as her inspiration.

Despite the increased speed, strict safety measures remain enforced, with officials closely monitoring rifle handling to prevent any breaches. This innovation could redefine competitive shooting efficiency as the World Cup progresses in Hochfilzen.

With intense races ahead and athletes embracing cutting-edge techniques, the Biathlon World Cup 2025-2026 season promises excitement and groundbreaking developments for winter sports enthusiasts worldwide.