The 24-year-old is bursting with confidence and considers himself the top favorite for both the Olympic Games and the overall World Cup title, just a week and a half before the season opener.

Last winter, he repeatedly outperformed the biathlon stars, and this summer and autumn, he has dominated nearly every competition. Now, Eric Perrot enters the Olympic season with massive self-belief.

“I’m exactly where I want to be. I’m proud of that, and it gives me huge opportunities — which I intend to make the most of,” he told NordicMag.

In February, Perrot won his first individual World Championship gold, as well as gold and silver in the relays and bronze in the pursuit. A month later, he finished third overall in the World Cup standings.

In just over a week, he will face his Norwegian rivals on their home turf, at the Norwegian national season opener in Geilo, from November 14 to 16. He’s looking forward to it.

“This is the life I’ve always dreamed of. I’m in incredible shape,” said Perrot.

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Sky-high ambitions

The 24-year-old, son of former French biathlete Franck Perrot and Norwegian biathlete Tone Marit Oftedal, has never been afraid to set high goals.

Now, the French-Norwegian from Bourg-Saint-Maurice in the Alps is aiming for gold in his first Olympic Games — and the overall crystal globe in March. He sees himself as the favorite for both.

Several others agree — including archrival Tommaso Giacomel, who believes Perrot will be an even tougher contender than World Cup winner Sturla Holm Lægreid.

“Lægreid is good, but I think the real favorite is Eric Perrot. He’s extremely consistent and has the mentality to be the biggest challenger. He’s made big progress both on the tracks and at the shooting range. He’s the man to beat this season,” said the Italian biathlon star.

Read More: “I have to be confident”: Norwegian talent believes he can challenge Lægreid

Huge improvements

In recent months, Perrot has focused on several key aspects of his performance, including prone shooting.

“I’ve made huge progress — and that’s the most important thing for me in this preseason,” he said.

Based on his results from summer and autumn, he has every reason to be confident.

Eric Perrot won both the sprint and mass start at the Blink Festival in early August, the City Biathlon Dresden three weeks later, and the new international season opener Loop One in mid-October.

“Whether I win Olympic gold or not, I’m enjoying every moment. I’m exactly where I want to be — right in the heart of my dreams. I’ve gained experience, achieved great results, and I’m part of the French national team.”

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