Debuting Biathletes to Watch at 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics
The upcoming 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics will showcase numerous biathletes making their Olympic debuts. Prominent among them are Lou Jeanmonnot and Eric Perrot, who are expected to perform exceptionally well.
Top Debuting Biathletes to Watch
Lou Jeanmonnot and Eric Perrot have emerged as frontrunners in the world of biathlon. Thirteen events into the 2025/2026 season, both athletes are leading the overall World Cup standings, donning the yellow jersey.
Performances Leading Up to the Games
- Jeanmonnot boasts seven World Championship medals, including four golds.
- Perrot won the gold medal in the individual event at the 2025 World Championships.
Their successes in the World Cup in Nove Mesto have boosted their confidence ahead of the Games in Antholz. The French team’s unique preparation strategy sets them apart from other competitors.
Norway’s Rising Stars
Following the retirement of biathlon legends Johannes Thingnes and Tarjei Boe, Norway is focusing on a new generation of athletes. Sturla Holm Laegreid and Vetle Sjaastad Christiansen have experience but newcomers are also making their mark.
- Johan-Olav Botn has won two World Cup races this season.
- Johannes Dale-Skjevdal triumphed in the pursuit event in Ruhpolding.
- Martin Uldal consistently finishes on the podium.
Women’s Division
Maren Kirkkeide stands out in the women’s competition. At just 22 years old, she leads the U23 World Cup and celebrated her first World Cup victory in December 2025.
Germany’s Newcomers
The German men’s team will see several athletes making their Olympic debuts. While Philipp Nawrath has prior experience, Justus Strelow, Philipp Horn, Lucas Fratzscher, and David Zobel will all be new to the Olympics.
- Julia Tannheimer, at just 19 years old, is the youngest member of the German team.
Other Notable Debuts
Keep an eye on these promising newcomers:
- Oceane Michelon and Camille Bened from France.
- Ella Halvarsson from Sweden, silver medalist at the 2025 World Championships.
- Selina Grotian from Germany, already a World Cup winner at age 21.
- Four Italian rookies: Hannah Auchentaller, Patrick Braunhofer, Elia Zeni, and Nicola Romanin.
Veteran athletes like Simon Eder and Lukas Hofer will offer valuable insights to the newcomers as they participate in their fifth Olympic Games.
The 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics promises thrilling performances from these debuting biathletes. Fans can look forward to a captivating display of talent on the world stage.
