German Biathlon Teams Shine in Hochfilzen with Relay Podium and Strong Pursuit Performances

The Biathlon World Cup in Hochfilzen saw mixed fortunes for Germany as the German women's relay team clinched a podium finish, while the men's pursuit race brought highs and lows. The German women's relay squad—Anna Weidel, Julia Tannheimer, Janina Hettich-Walz, and Vanessa Voigt—secured third place despite the absence of star Franziska Preuß due to illness. Julia Tannheimer expressed satisfaction with her improved shooting, saying, "I am glad that I made it through the shooting today." Sweden won the race, followed by Norway, with France finishing sixth after penalties.

On the men's side, Philipp Horn achieved a career milestone by finishing third in Friday's sprint event. However, during the pursuit race on Saturday, he suffered a fall after the second shooting, costing him time and dropping his position to fourth. Horn commented on his fall, "I was annoyed because it was so stupid," although he was pleased with his overall form. The pursuit was won by France's Eric Perrot, marking his fifth World Cup victory. Philipp Nawrath also improved strongly from fifteenth to tenth place.

The men's pursuit started at noon Saturday, followed by the women's relay at 2:15 PM, both broadcast live on ARD and Eurosport. Due to illness, German athletes Franziska Preuß and Selina Grotian missed the event but are expected to return for the next World Cup stages in Le Grand Bornand.

The Biathlon World Cup continues with the men's relay and women's pursuit on Sunday, keeping German fans eager after these promising performances.