Vittozzi to Miss First World Cup Stage

The Italian biathlon team will have to start the 2024/2025 season without one of its top athletes.

Details: According to the IBU press service, Lisa Vittozzi will miss the first stage of the World Cup in Kontiolahti, Finland, due to back problems. The 29-year-old biathlete is continuing her recovery after a recent flare-up of her injury forced her to slow down her training pace.

As a result, the Italian team has decided not to field her in Kontiolahti. Instead, Vittozzi will continue her preparation in Obertilliach, Austria, with the aim of returning for the second World Cup stage in Hochfilzen, scheduled for December 13-15.

Reminder: Vittozzi is the reigning holder of the Big Crystal Globe. Earlier, her compatriot Dorothea Wierer announced her intention to compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics.