Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken, a promising contender for the 2026 Winter Olympics, was found dead in his hotel room during a training camp in Lavaze, Italy. The 27-year-old athlete passed away suddenly on December 23, 2025, with the cause still unknown according to Italian authorities and the Norwegian Biathlon Association.
Sudden Loss Shocks Biathlon World
The news broke on December 23, 2025, when Bakken failed to appear for team activities at the high-altitude training site in the Trentino region. Teammates discovered him unresponsive in his room, and emergency services confirmed his death shortly after.
This tragedy comes just weeks before the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics set for February 2026. Bakken had been in strong form, competing in recent World Cup events and preparing intensely for the games. Officials from the International Biathlon Union expressed deep sorrow, noting the profound impact on the sport.
Biathlon combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, demanding peak physical and mental strength. Bakken’s death has raised questions about athlete health in such grueling disciplines, though no official details on the cause have emerged yet.
Bakken’s Rise in Biathlon
Sivert Guttorm Bakken burst onto the international scene with impressive performances in his early career. Born in Lillehammer, Norway, he grew up in a region famous for winter sports and quickly showed talent in biathlon.
He claimed his first World Cup victory in the 15-kilometer mass start at Oslo Holmenkollen in March 2022. That season marked his breakthrough, with consistent top finishes that positioned him as a key player for Norway’s team.
Bakken’s skills shone in relay events too, contributing to Norway’s dominance in the sport. His precision shooting and endurance skiing made him a fan favorite.
Here are some key highlights from his career:
- Won gold in the junior world championships in 2018.
- Secured a World Cup podium in the sprint race at Ruhpolding, Germany, in 2021.
- Helped Norway win the mixed relay at the 2022 World Championships.
Overcoming Health Challenges
Bakken’s journey took a tough turn in 2022 when he was diagnosed with myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle. This forced him to step away from competition for over a year, missing crucial seasons and events.
Doctors linked the condition to a possible viral infection, though Bakken himself mentioned challenges after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine dose in interviews at the time. He worked hard on recovery, focusing on gradual training and medical monitoring to rebuild his strength.
By late 2024, Bakken made a remarkable comeback. He returned to the World Cup circuit, finishing 13th in the overall standings for the 2024-2025 season. His recent 10th-place finish in the pursuit race at Le Grand Bornand, France, on December 21, 2025, showed he was back at his best.
This resilience inspired many in the biathlon community. Teammates described him as someone who never gave up, even in the face of serious setbacks.
Experts note that heart issues in young athletes are rare but can stem from various factors like infections or intense physical stress. Bakken’s story highlights the importance of regular health checks in elite sports.
Tributes Pour In from Around the Globe
The biathlon world has united in grief, with tributes flooding social media and official statements. Norwegian teammate Sturla Holm Laegreid posted an emotional message, calling Bakken “one of the toughest” and a true role model for his determination.
International Biathlon Union president Olle Dahlin said Bakken’s comeback brought joy to the sport and that his loss is impossible to comprehend. Fans and fellow athletes shared stories of his kindness and competitive spirit.
In Norway, the news has dominated headlines, with public broadcaster NRK covering the story extensively. The Norwegian Biathlon Association plans a memorial service, and flags at training centers are flying at half-mast.
Similar tragedies in sports, like the sudden death of Norwegian cross-country skier Camilla Nygard in August 2024 at age 18 from suspected cardiac arrest, remind us of the vulnerabilities athletes face. These events have sparked discussions on improving medical support for young competitors.
Impact on Team Norway and the Olympics
Bakken’s death leaves a void in Norway’s biathlon squad, known for its depth and success. The team was in Italy for high-altitude training to prepare for the Olympics, and the incident has paused activities as members cope with the loss.
Coaches are providing counseling, and the association is working with Italian officials on the investigation. The focus now shifts to supporting the family and ensuring athlete well-being.
Looking ahead, Norway remains a powerhouse in biathlon, with stars like Johannes Thingnes Boe leading the way. Yet, Bakken’s absence will be felt at the 2026 Games, where he was expected to contend for medals.
| Event | Date | Bakken’s Finish | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sprint Race | January 2025 | 8th | Antholz, Italy |
| Pursuit Race | December 2025 | 10th | Le Grand Bornand, France |
| Mass Start | March 2022 | 1st | Oslo Holmenkollen, Norway |
| Relay | February 2022 | 2nd (Team) | Beijing Olympics (though he didn’t compete due to health) |
What This Means for Athlete Safety
Sports organizations are reviewing protocols in light of this event. The International Olympic Committee emphasizes heart screenings, especially after recent cases of sudden deaths in young athletes.
Bakken’s case underscores the need for balance between intense training and health monitoring. As investigations continue, the biathlon community hopes for answers to prevent future tragedies.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this story in the comments below. If you knew Sivert or followed his career, tell us how his determination inspired you. Please share this article with fellow sports fans to honor his memory.
