(WMP) The biathletes' World Cup opener in Kontiolahti, Finland, is just a few days away. Meanwhile, preparations are in full swing in Hochfilzen for the home World Cup from 13 to 15 December.

The 2024/25 Biathlon World Cup season kicks off next Saturday in Kontiolahti (FIN), with the ÖSV team of Lisa Hauser, Anna Gandler, Simon Eder and Felix Leitner eagerly awaiting the start. An extensive programme awaits the biathlon stars with the single mixed relay, relay races, short singles, sprint and mass start. ‘I've been in the World Cup for some time now, but the start is always exciting. It's the first real test of the season,’ explains veteran Simon Eder, who, like his team-mates, is already looking forward to the home crowd. The cross-country skiers are practically flying directly from Finland to the Tyrolean lowlands, where the Biathlon World Cup will be held in Hochfilzen from 13 to 15 December. ‘The home World Cup is an absolute highlight in winter. The atmosphere in the stadium and along the course is simply indescribable. Being cheered on by your home fans, friends and family is really something special,’ says Kitzbühel's Anna Gandler enthusiastically.

Preparations in Hochfilzen on schedule
While the athletes are already warming up in Kontiolahti, preparations are entering the final phase in Hochfilzen. Organising committee head Franz Berger and his highly experienced team are leaving nothing to chance to ensure that the 650 or so athletes, coaches and service technicians from 32 nations as well as the 250 or so media representatives have the best possible conditions. ‘The preparations are on schedule. The construction of the grandstands, technical equipment, VIP tent and, of course, the course has begun. There is enough snow and Mrs Holle has already given us a little support. But there is still a little time for the final preparation of the course,’ says the chief of organizing committee.

Compact competition programme in Hochfilzen
The three race days are once again packed with exciting competitions this year. The sprint races kick off on Friday (13 December). For the local biathlon stars around Anna Gandler, Lisa Hauser, Simon Eder and Felix Leitner, it's not just about top results, but also about a good starting position for the pursuit on Saturday. The three-day biathlon festival comes to an end on Sunday with the relay competitions. The award ceremonies will take place directly after the competitions and a colourful fan programme around the races will ensure that the cheers never die down. On Friday and Saturday, the Biathlon Party will also take place at the “Kulturhaus Hochfilzen”.

Tickets and travelling
Day and general tickets for the grandstands, track or VIP area can be conveniently ordered at www.biathlon-hochfilzen.at or www.skiaustriaticket.at. For a free journey by public transport, a ticket can be booked using the adjacent QR code. This is valid as a ticket for travelling to and from the event throughout Tyrol on all VVT public transport connections (except for the Innsbruck core zone, ÖBB IC, ÖBB EC, ÖBB Railjet and WESTbahn). Shuttle bus connections from Saalfelden to Hochfilzen and within the PillerseeTal are also available free of charge.