Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken has died suddenly at age 27, the International Biathlon Union (IBU) said. He died during a training camp in Italy.
The IBU said: “The International Biathlon Union is deeply saddened to learn that Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken has passed away at the age of 27 during a training camp in Italy.” Norwegian broadcaster NRK reported he was found dead in his hotel room in Lavaze, in Italy’s Trentino region.
Bakken had myocarditis, a heart condition, and was diagnosed in 2022. He took time away from competition and later returned to biathlon. He was preparing for the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
Bakken was the reigning European champion in the 10km sprint and two relays. He also won four World Cup races and the season-long mass start title in 2021-22.
IBU president Olle Dahlin said: “The IBU is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic news of Sivert Bakken’s sudden death.” He added: “His passing at such a young age is impossible to comprehend.”
