Franziska Preuß has voiced her frustration regarding the Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof, particularly over the new starting regulations and poor weather conditions. After a disappointing 28th place finish in the sprint, she criticized the international biathlon federation for not adjusting starting positions amid heavy rain. Despite her challenges, including errors at the shooting range, Preuß remains determined to improve her performance in upcoming events, focusing on enhancing her shooting and racing strategy.
Franziska Preuß Voices Frustration at Biathlon World Cup
The Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof has seen significant controversy this winter, particularly regarding the newly implemented starting regulations. Franziska Preuß, a key figure in the competition, has expressed her outrage over the “wet mush” conditions, directing her ire towards the international biathlon federation, which has responded to her criticisms.
Concerns Over New Starting Regulations
Prior to the winter season, biathlon athletes, including Preuß, raised alarms about the IBU’s plans to enhance excitement in individual races through a new starting order. Many top competitors feared these changes would lead to unfair disadvantages in challenging weather conditions. Initially, these concerns seemed unfounded, but the unpredictable weather in Oberhof brought them to the forefront, causing frustration for Preuß.
After finishing a disappointing 28th in the sprint, Preuß did not hold back her disappointment, stating she was “not satisfied” with the governing body’s decisions. She had anticipated that the IBU would adjust the starting positions for the top 15 competitors due to the heavy rain affecting the Thuringian Forest, as the rules permit under such conditions.
“We were fully aware of the intense rain and the deteriorating track conditions. They should have made adjustments. I simply can’t understand the lack of response,” she remarked. Preuß lamented, “Instead, we struggle through the wet mush, realizing that progress is nearly impossible. It’s frustrating to face such disadvantages.” The German Ski Association (DSV) had advocated for a change in the starting order before the event, but their requests went unheeded.
In response to Preuß’s outcry, the IBU acknowledged the challenging conditions and expressed understanding of athletes’ frustrations following disappointing performances. They clarified that the five-member jury, which included officials and coaches, faced a complex decision-making process. Ultimately, they opted to maintain the standard starting system, believing it would provide comparable conditions for all competitors throughout the race.
Preuß began the race as the 64th entrant, with only one competitor starting behind her. Despite this, she fell over a minute behind Justine Braisaz-Bouchet, the day’s fastest competitor, who started 12 places ahead of her. Additionally, Preuß encountered difficulties at the shooting range, making three errors.
Looking ahead, Preuß is determined to improve her performance. She aims to “make up some positions” during the upcoming pursuits, scheduled for Saturday, where she will start with a two-minute deficit behind surprise winner Paula Botet. Following this, the competition will culminate on Sunday with the single mixed and mixed relay events. Afterward, the athletes will head to Ruhpolding for the next leg of their competition, beginning January 15.
For Preuß, the immediate challenge is managing her frustration. She is focused on enhancing her shooting performance and adopting a more aggressive approach on the track to recover from her sprint disappointment.