Norwegian Biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken Dies During Pre-Olympic Training Camp in Italy
Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken, aged 27, died in a hotel room in Lavaze, Italy, while attending a pre-Olympic high-altitude training camp. The cause of death was not disclosed at the time, and Italian authorities were involved in the investigation.
The International Biathlon Union (IBU) confirmed Bakken's death via the Italian authorities and expressed deep shock. IBU president Olle Dahlin conveyed sadness over the loss. The IBU also extended thoughts to Bakken's family and friends.
Bakken had a promising career, winning his first World Cup race in 2022 at the 15-kilometre mass start in Oslo Holmenkollen. Although his career was interrupted after the 2021-2022 season due to heart problems, he returned to compete for Norway in the World Cup. He recently competed in a World Cup event at Le Grand Bornand, France, where he placed 13th in the current season's overall standings.
Norwegian broadcaster NRK reported Bakken had travelled to Lavaze for the training camp. His teammate, Sturla Holm Laegreid, described him as one of the toughest athletes and a role model.
