Janina Hettich-Walz will not start in the upcoming biathlon sprint this afternoon.

The German athlete will be replaced in the biathlon sprint by Selina Grotian. The reason for the withdrawal is stomach issues, which Hettich-Walz has been dealing with over the last few days.

The athlete explained her decision herself on social media:

“Over the last two days, I’ve been struggling with stomach problems, and even though I’m already feeling better today, the sprint unfortunately comes too early. A tough decision, but health comes first.”

As stated on the official DSV-Biathlon Instagram account, the decision was made jointly by the athlete, the coaching staff, and the on-site medical team. The aim is to avoid jeopardizing Hettich-Walz’s chances of a possible relay start and a potential mass start later in the competition.

Sports director Felix Bitterling cited three main reasons for the nomination of Selina Grotian: the positive form trend she has shown in recent weeks, her strong skiing ability and physical strength, and her top performances in Antholz during previous competitions.

For Grotian, the late call-up offers another opportunity to prove herself on a big stage, while Hettich-Walz clearly shifts her focus toward recovery and the upcoming races.

The women’s 7.5km sprint in Antholz is scheduled to start this afternoon at 14:45 CET.

Also Read: Olympics 2026: Complete biathlon guide to the women’s 7.5km Sprint

Biathlon schedule – Milano-Cortina 2026

Sunday, February 8: Mixed Relay (M+W) (More information can be found HERE)

• 14:05 CET: Mixed Relay, Men + Women

Tuesday, February 10: Men 20km Individual (More information can be found HERE)

• 13:30 CET: 20km Individual, Men

Wednesday, February 11: Women 15km Individual (More information can be found HERE)

• 14:15 CET: 15km Individual, Women

Friday, February 13: Men 10km Sprint (More information can be found HERE)

• 14:00 CET: 10km Sprint, Men

Saturday, February 14: Women 7.5km Sprint (More information can be found HERE)

• 14:45 CET: 7.5km Sprint, Women

Sunday, February 15: Men 12.5km Pursuit and Women 10km Pursuit (More information can be found HERE)

• 11:15 CET: 12.5km Pursuit, Men
• 14:45 CET: 10km Pursuit, Women

Tuesday, February 17: Men 4×7.5km Relay (More information can be found HERE)

• 14:30 CET: 4×7.5km Relay, Men

Wednesday, February 18: Women 4x6km Relay (More information can be found HERE)

• 14:45 CET: 4x6km Relay, Women

Friday, February 20: Men 15km Mass Start (More information can be found HERE)

• 14:15 CET: 15km Mass Start, Men

Saturday, February 21: Women 12.5km Mass Start (More information can be found HERE)

• 14:15 CET: 12.5km Mass Start, Women

Complete program for the Winter Olympic Games can be found HERE

Antholz-Anterselva promises breathtaking courses for athletes and spectacular viewing for fans. With every shot and ski stride counting, the biathletes will aim for the podium in every race, making the biathlon one of the most eagerly watched events of the 2026 Winter Games.

Are you interested in biathlon? Click HERE and read more about it.

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