Danilo Riethmüller caused a sensation. © APA/afp / OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE

A mass start with a big surprise

The last men's biathlon race in 2024 is history. On Sunday, the mass start in Le Grand-Bornand provided a spectacular conclusion.

22 December 2024

From: det

For a long time, everything pointed to a Norwegian XXL victory in the mass start at Le Grand-Bornand in France. And in fact, five super moose were in the first six positions. But one person in the French Alps had something against a multiple triumph for the Scandinavians: the German no-name Danilo Riethmüller caused a sensation and took second place, his first World Cup podium.

The 25-year-old late starter showed an outstanding performance on the shooting range on Sunday, only missing once in adverse conditions and thus entering the final round in second position, behind him the great champion Johannes Thingnes Bø. Riethmüller ran for his life, however, and finally brought his narrow lead over the finish line. Tarjei Bø was unbeatable and took a commanding victory.

Tarjei Bø was the winner in the end. © APA/afp / OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE

“I was shaking a bit because I knew that Johannes was behind me,” said Riethmüller in the HIGH. In the end, however, he was not going to let anyone take his first podium finish away from him. He can now even take home the red jersey of the overall mass start leader, as the German had already had a taste of the podium in Kontiolahti with fourth place.

Nothing to gain for the Azzurri

There was nothing for Italy in the mass start. Tommaso Giacomel from Trentino was the best Azzurro in 14th place. At least he was in good form, as he still managed to get an acceptable placing despite five penalty laps. Lukas Hofer from Montal had to settle for 27th place: he lost almost three minutes to the winner with three shooting errors.

The France weekend and the biathlon year will conclude with the women's mass start, which will take place on Sunday from 14.45:XNUMX p.m.