The 22-year-old from Rennebu beat Olympic stars and the entire Norwegian national team at the season opener in Geilo. But she won’t get to race in the World Cup.

“That was not what I expected, at least. It’s really cool. I never thought it would go this well,” Guro Ytterhus told NRK after her shock win in the sprint at the season opener in Geilo.

The 22-year-old was flawless on the range and won ahead of Olympic stars and world champions. But the young woman from Rennebu cannot expect a place in the Norwegian team for the World Cup opener in Kontiolahti.

Norway can field up to six women there. Four spots are already taken. Marthe Kråkstad Johansen, Maren Hjelmeset Kirkeeide, Karoline Offigstad Knotten and Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold have been given the green light based on last season’s performances.

Juni Arnekleiv, Ida Lien, Gro Njølstad Randby and Siri Galtung Skar were already the ones fighting for the last two spots.

On Sunday, the Norwegian season opener in Geilo continues with a mass start. The final selection for the World Cup and the IBU Cup will be announced after the opening weekend.

See also: Everything about the season openers in cross-country skiing and biathlon

Norwegian biathlon season opener 2026 – Geilo

Top 3 Women, Sprint

1. Guro Ytterhus, 21:27.2
2. Lisa Vittozzi, Italy, +9.6
3. Kamilla Zuk, Poland, +11.9

Complete results can be found HERE when available.

This story is being updated.

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