01 
Franzi | Games
Franzi | Games 
How does biathlon work?
Biathlon is a combination of endurance and precision – here we explain exactly how this winter sport works!
approx. 3 min.
How does biathlon work?
5/5 – no penalties!
Biathlon is a fascinating winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and shooting. Originally developed from military exercises in the snow, biathlon is now one of the most exciting disciplines in winter sports.
How does biathlon work?
The athletes race on cross-country skis over snow-covered courses, interrupted by shooting bouts, where they shoot at targets either lying down or standing.
The goal in biathlon is to complete the course as quickly as possible while shooting with maximum accuracy. In each round, athletes shoot at five targets.
There are different competition formats that make this sport so exciting:
- Individual: Athletes start one after another and cover 20 km (men) or 15 km (women). Each missed shot adds a one-minute penalty.
- Sprint: A shorter race (10 km/7.5 km) with two shooting bouts. For every missed shot, a penalty loop must be skied.
- Pursuit: Athletes start based on the results of the sprint. The goal is to cross the finish line first.
- Mass start: Everyone starts at the same time, creating thrilling overtaking maneuvers and head-to-head duels.
- Relay: Teams of four athletes compete together for victory.
- Mixed relay: Men and women form a mixed team.
What are the rules in biathlon?
The rules of biathlon can be divided into two main points:
- Sequence of disciplines: Athletes alternate between cross-country skiing and shooting. For each shooting bout, there are five shots, and the order (prone/standing) is usually predetermined.
- Penalties: Missed shots are penalized either with penalty loops (approx. 150 m) or with penalty minutes.
Which biathlon events are the most important?
- World Cup season: The biathlon World Cup season usually begins in November or December and runs throughout the entire winter. Athletes collect points in various competitions in the battle for the coveted overall World Cup title.
- Biathlon World Championships: Every year (except in Olympic years) the World Championships are held, where the best athletes compete for medals in all disciplines.
- Olympic Winter Games: Every four years, biathlon is one of the main attractions of the Winter Games, where Olympic history is written.
- Venues: Classics such as Oberhof (Germany), Antholz (Italy), and Holmenkollen (Norway) are legendary stops with enthusiastic fans and an incomparable atmosphere.
Our betting options
Biathlon understood? Then let’s go!
Our betting portfolio at MERKUR BETS offers you wagers on the most important biathlon events of the year, so check out MERKUR BETS and place your bet on your favorite!
