Sun Jan 19 21:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Biathlon Star Bø Finishes Third in Final Race Before Retirement; Giacomel Takes First Win
**Ruhpolding, Germany** – Johannes Thingnes Bø, the dominant force in biathlon, secured a third-place finish in the men’s 15km mass start in Ruhpolding just one day after announcing his retirement from the sport at the end of the season. The emotional announcement, made on Saturday, cited a desire to prioritize his family and the intense demands of Olympic competition. Bø, currently leading the World Cup standings, missed two targets in the race.
The victory went to Italy’s Tommaso Giacomel, who celebrated his first-ever World Cup win with a clean shooting performance. Giacomel expressed his delight, stating, “It’s insane, I’m completely out of this world. It’s been a real tough time for our team and striking back today, showing everyone what we are capable of, it’s great.” Bø’s teammate, Sturla Holm Lægreid, took second place.
In the women’s 12.5km mass start, Sweden’s Elvira Öberg secured her second win of the season with a flawless shooting performance and the fastest time. World Cup leader Franziska Preuss of Germany finished second, extending her lead in the overall standings. France’s Jeanne Richard rounded out the podium in third.
Bø’s decision to retire before the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina d’Ampezzo surprised the biathlon community. He acknowledged his talent and potential for continued success but cited the unsustainable demands of high-level competition. The next World Cup stop is in Antholz-Anterselva, Italy, from January 23-26.
First Piper 