BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon
Next winter, from March 12 to 15, 2026, the BMW IBU Biathlon World Cup stage will take place at the Tehvandi Sports Center in Otepää, Estonia. This will be the second time that the Biathlon World Cup series is held in the Baltic countries, specifically in Otepää.
The Biathlon World Cup stage held in Otepää in 2022 demonstrated that spectators are very eager to watch the competitions. "During the 2022 World Cup stage, nearly 20,000 spectators attended over four days, but in March 2026, we are prepared to welcome even more visitors," noted the chairman of the organizing committee, Aivar Nigolas. The upcoming high-level biathlon competition is expected to host up to 20,000 spectators each day.
Over the years, the organizing team has strived to create the best conditions for both athletes and spectators. "Our team is very experienced and ready to organize top-level competitions. Over the past two years, we have successfully hosted the Youth and Junior World Championships, as well as the Summer Biathlon World Championships, and we have just concluded the IBU Cup series finals here in Otepää," said A. Nigolas. "I am confident that we will be able to offer athletes and visitors a world-class competition that will remain memorable for many years," added A. Nigolas.
The World Cup stage in Otepää will take place just a few weeks after the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games, giving spectators the opportunity to watch Olympic champions compete. "Spectators will be able to watch the competitions from the shooting range and stadium stands, as well as along the track where screens will be installed. The competition track will be very close to the audience – this will provide an extremely authentic sporting experience," emphasized A. Nigolas. Over four competition days, the world's best athletes will compete in sprint, pursuit, mixed relay, and single mixed relay events.
Visitors can look forward to not only a top-level sporting event but also a cultural and leisure program designed for the whole family. "We aim to offer visitors of all ages a special cultural experience, along with a selection of local food and products. Special attention is being paid to environmental protection and sustainability during the event’s organization," noted A. Nigolas. From Friday, March 21, combined tickets guaranteeing access to designated zones for all competitions, weekend events, as well as Thursday and Friday races, will be available for purchase on the website www.bilietai.lt. Children under 12 years old will be able to attend the competitions free of charge.