Biathlon: Czechs Prepare for Oslo Sprint Amid Challenging Conditions

Oslo, Norway – The final sprint of the 2025/26 Biathlon World Cup season is set to take place Thursday at Holmenkollen in Oslo, Norway, but athletes are facing less-than-ideal conditions. Dense fog has blanketed the area for days, severely limiting training opportunities on the shooting range, and variable snow conditions are adding to the challenge. Despite the difficulties, the Czech team, including veteran Tereza Vinklárková in what could be her final competitive appearance, is ready to compete.

Fog and Variable Snow Conditions Hamper Preparation

The Holmenkollen biathlon course is currently shrouded in thick fog, making visibility extremely poor. “It feels like we can’t see any better than the coaches with binoculars,” Czech biathlete Tereza Vinklárková told Czech Television. The challenging conditions have made it difficult for athletes to prepare adequately for the sprint race. Adding to the complexity, the snow conditions are inconsistent, with some areas being very soft and others having been treated with salt, creating icy patches.

“I think Here’s the first time in my life I’m going into a race without having shot or even skied the course,” Vinklárková admitted to Czech Television. “I’m honestly curious to see how it goes.” The lack of practice time is particularly poignant for Vinklárková, who is contemplating retirement after a 15-year career.

Vinklárková’s Potential Farewell and Team Outlook

The sprint in Oslo marks a significant moment for Tereza Vinklárková, as she considers it a potential final race. Jakub Procházka, an assistant coach for the Czech team, praised Vinklárková’s consistency and performance, stating, “Terka has been making us happy with her performances. We are most pleased with her consistency. It wasn’t just one Olympic outburst. It shows that she objectively has what it takes. When she is healthy and in form, she can compete with the best.” The team hopes to see Vinklárková compete in Saturday’s pursuit race as well.

The Czech team will see Tereza Voborníková start first, wearing bib number 13. Following her will be Lucie Charvátová (bib 32), Tereza Vinklárková (bib 86), and Jessica Jislová (bib 86).

Jeanmonnotová Eyes Overall World Cup Title

Beyond the Czech contingent, the women’s sprint also holds significant stakes for the overall World Cup standings. France’s Lou Jeanmonnotová has already secured the small crystal globe for the sprint discipline and is within reach of claiming the overall World Cup title. She needs to finish ahead of her closest competitor, Suvi Minkkinenová, or place within the top ten if Minkkinenová finishes on the podium.

What to Expect in Oslo

The sprint race is scheduled to begin at 16:15 local time (UTC+2) on Thursday. Athletes will face a challenging course and unpredictable shooting conditions. The variable snow and limited visibility will test their adaptability and precision. The race promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the Biathlon World Cup season, with both individual glory and overall titles on the line.

The conditions in Oslo present a unique challenge for all competitors. The combination of fog, variable snow, and limited training opportunities will require athletes to rely on their experience and mental fortitude. The Czech team, led by the experienced Vinklárková and the consistent Voborníková, will be aiming to finish the season on a high note.

As the biathlon season draws to a close, the focus shifts to Oslo and the final races of the World Cup. The sprint on Thursday will set the stage for the remaining events, and fans can expect a competitive and exciting finish to the season.

Next up for the women’s biathlon team is the pursuit race on Saturday, where they will look to build on their performances in the sprint and secure valuable points in the overall standings.