On Saturday, the Swedish biathlon season kicks off with competitions in Idre Fjäll. Following a period of mild weather over the past week, concerns have arisen about whether the premiere can still be held there.

SVT’s expert Mona Brorsson suggested that the event should perhaps be moved to Östersund.

“That’s really the only other arena in Sweden capable of hosting such an event,” she said to SVT a few days ago.

Program changes

It has now been confirmed that the competitions will be held as planned in Idre Fjäll. However, some adjustments have been made to the schedule due to the current snow situation.

The original plan was to have a short individual race and a sprint, but this has now been changed to two sprint races. In addition, there isn’t enough snow for a penalty loop, so both competitions will instead be run with time penalties.

“The attitude from both Idre Fjäll and the Swedish Biathlon Association is to carry out the Swedish premiere at Idre Fjäll on November 15–16. The plan is to hold two sprint races (with adjusted distance) and to use time penalties instead of a penalty loop,” the Association writes on Sportta.

International field

The Swedish athletes will face tough international competition in Idre. Lisa Vittozzi, who is making her return to snow after an injury, is among the registered athletes. Additionally, a significant portion of the German national team, comprising both women and men, will be in attendance.

Several other national teams will also compete at the Swedish season opener, including Estonia, Ukraine, and Poland.

Also Read: World Cup winner to compete at Swedish biathlon season opener in Idre Fjäll

You can find the list of registered athletes for the competitions HERE.

Are you interested in biathlon? Click HERE and read more about it.

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