Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken was discovered dead in his hotel accommodation in Lavaze, Italy, the International Biathlon Union confirmed on Tuesday.
The 27-year-old athlete was participating in a high-altitude training camp in the Italian Alps following last weekend’s World Cup event at Le Grand-Bornand in France.
The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.
Authorities are yet to determine the cause.
Norwegian Biathlon Federation acting general secretary Emilie Nordskar said the organisation is working alongside Italian police investigating the matter.
Bakken had been competing for selection to Norway’s squad ahead of February’s Winter Olympics, having recently achieved several strong World Cup results this season.
Bakken secured his sole individual World Cup triumph at Holmenkollen in 2022, a breakthrough moment in what had appeared a promising career.
However, that same year brought significant adversity when he was diagnosed with myocarditis, a heart condition that forced him away from the sport.
Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken was discovered dead in his hotel accommodation
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The Lillehammer native spent two years recovering before making his competitive return during the 2024/25 season, initially through the IBU Cup where he recorded multiple podium finishes.
This winter marked his comeback to elite-level racing, with the 27-year-old posting several top-ten results, including a fourth-place finish over 20 kilometres at Östersund.
IBU President Olle Dahlin paid tribute to the Norwegian’s fighting spirit.
He said: “Sivert’s comeback to biathlon after a period of great hardship was a source of immense joy for everyone in the biathlon family and an inspiring demonstration of his resilience and determination.”
The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear
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Dahlin added: “His passing at such a young age is impossible to comprehend but he will not be forgotten and he will forever remain in our hearts.”
Fellow Norwegian competitor Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen shared his grief on Instagram.
He wrote: “You were back!! At the top of the range, at the top of Norway’s highest mountains and at the top of life.”
A memorial ceremony was scheduled for Tuesday evening in Norway, whilst a crisis unit has been established to support teammates and relatives.
