Norway’s former coach does not hold back. Just under a month before the World Cup opener, he believes France is far ahead in absolutely crucial areas.

For ten years, he was head shooting coach for the Norwegian biathlon team. Siegfried Mazet helped develop some of the world’s biggest stars: Johannes Thingnes Bø, Tarjei Bø and Sturla Holm Lægreid are three of them.

But in March, it was over. After leaving Norway, Mazet went straight into the equivalent role in France, the same position he left in 2016.

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New perspective

“I am really happy to be back in France, and above all to be back with a completely new perspective,” Mazet tells Nordic Mag, and explains further. 

“I have matured, I have gained a lot of experience, and I have learned something different from what I did with the French team between 2008 and 2016. And I have experienced a different biathlon culture. Not better or worse, but different. I am clear about that.” 

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Far ahead in crucial areas

Mazet points out that the entire national team structure is different in Norway than in France. But a lot has happened since he left the French national team ten years ago, and he is impressed by how much progress has been made.

Now, half a year after taking over as head coach of the French men’s team and just under a month before the World Cup opener, Mazet delivers a harsh verdict on the Norwegian national team. He believes France is far ahead of Norway in absolutely crucial areas.

“Things have fallen into place, and I am happy to see that it has turned out so well. There were areas where France was behind Norway in 2016, and where we are now far ahead of Norway,” he says.

And it is not about individual athletes. It is about expertise and framework.

Eager to experiment

“We have a very young and curious support staff with people who are eager to experiment with things. That is where the real difference from Norway lies,” says Mazet.  

He especially highlights the French national team’s physical trainer, Romain Hurtault. 

“He is extremely present and concrete, and he follows up the physical training very closely. That is absolutely crucial. He is razor-sharp and methodical, and his expertise in altitude training is truly incredible,” says Mazet, and continues.

“Norway also holds altitude camps, but they do not go any further than that.” 

In addition, the support staff includes several physiotherapists and team doctor Lénaïc Minjollet. 

“It is a very motivated and ambitious team,” says Mazet.

The World Cup starts on November 26 in Kontiolahti, Finland. This winter’s World Championships take place in Otepää, Estonia, in February.

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