As the Biathlon World Championships set to begin on February 12 in Lenzerheide draw closer, the German Ski Association (DSV) has announced its roster. However, one spot on the team remains undecided. On Tuesday (January 28, 2025), the DSV revealed that nine athletes have secured their places, while the final position will be determined during the Biathlon European Championships, which kick off on Wednesday in Martell, South Tyrol.
The coaching team will make the decision based on both performance results and, critically, the athletes’ physical endurance on the track, the DSV stated on Tuesday.
Voigt’s Emotional Withdrawal
The open spot on the women’s team exists due to the withdrawal of Vanessa Voigt, who had to step down because of health issues. “I can hardly find the words right now, and it will surely take some time before I do,” the 27-year-old shared on Instagram. Instead of competing for medals at the World Championships (February 12–23), Voigt is facing another battle with her health.
“This season has been a real struggle from the very beginning,” she said on Tuesday, following her announcement to step away from the competition. “It’s been a rollercoaster, taking a toll not just on my mind but especially on my body as the season progressed.” After weighing her options, she concluded, “Now is the right time to take action.”
Six Women Compete for One Spot
With Voigt out, six athletes are vying for her place on the team: Julia Kink, Johanna Puff, Stefanie Scherer, Marlene Fichter, Anna Weidel, and Marion Wiesensarter. The final decision will be made after the sprint and pursuit races at the European Championships. Meanwhile, Selina Grotian (SC Mittenwald), Franziska Preuß (SC Haag), Sophia Schneider (SV Oberteisendorf), and Julia Tannheimer (DAV Ulm) have already secured their spots for the World Championships.
Men’s Team Finalized
For the men’s team, the DSV has already confirmed five participants. Philipp Horn (SV Frankenhain), Johannes Kühn (WSV Reit im Winkl), Philipp Nawrath (SK Nesselwang), Danilo Riethmüller (WSV Clausthal-Zellerfeld), and Justus Strelow (SG Stahl Schmiedeberg) will represent Germany in Lenzerheide.
As the countdown to the Biathlon World Championships begins, all eyes are on the European Championships in Martell, where the final piece of the German team puzzle will be determined
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