Otepää is ready for the Biathlon World Cup Stage

The BMW IBU Biathlon World Cup stage begins on Thursday, March 12, at the Tehvandi Sports Centre, bringing freshly crowned Olympic champions to Otepää. A large number of spectators is also expected, so visitors are advised to arrive early.

Although the weather at the Tehvandi Sports Centre already feels spring-like, the training days have gone successfully. “The tracks are in good condition and will hold up well until Sunday, as enough snow has been stored,” said Hillar Zahkna, Chairman of the Competition Committee for the Otepää World Cup stage. This year’s World Cup stage is also an important dress rehearsal for the Biathlon World Championships to be held in 2027. Organizers are already testing a number of solutions this week. “For example, we are testing whether the additional grandstands are in the right location and whether they are large enough,” Zahkna explained.

Organizers expect nearly 15,000 spectators in Otepää over the weekend and recommend arriving early to secure the best viewing spots. “It is worth coming not only for the competitions, but for the whole day, as the entertainment area offers activities for the entire family. The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of finding a viewing spot that suits you,” said Organizing Committee Chairman Aivar Nigol. Tickets are still available both for the grandstands and for trackside viewing areas.