French biathletes train in Austria without skiing due to weather, while summer competitions highlight young talent and a notable retirement.
French biathlon team trains in Austria
The French women's biathlon team has been training in Austria, focusing on sessions in Ramsau. They recently gathered at the French Biathlon Federation's headquarters in Annecy to prepare for upcoming training camps in Font-Romeu and Ramsau.Training conditions pose challenges
Current conditions in Ramsau do not allow for traditional skiing, so the team has started their training camp without certainty they will be able to use cross-country skis. This has affected their usual training routines.Team composition and selection
The team includes both experienced athletes and newer members. Stéphane Bouthiaux, a representative, disclosed the ten French athletes chosen for the Loop One Festival 2026. However, some have raised concerns about the selection process, suggesting it may not be ideal for competitive performance.Roller skiing as an alternative
Due to the lack of snow, the team has turned to roller skiing as an alternative training method. Photos of the French athletes during their training in Ramsau were released following sessions on Saturday and Sunday, offering a glimpse into their current activities.Other biathlon and skiing news
In other developments, Louis Atchekguezian and Lou Alaphilippe won the U17 ski jumping events in Gérardmer. In roller skiing, Romane Gorry of Féclaz claimed victory in the 4 km individual freestyle at the Summer National U15 challenge. Meanwhile, Norwegian Fredrik Villumstad, a quadruple medalist at the junior world championships in 2018 and 2019, has retired from competition.