Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken, aged 27, was found dead this Tuesday, December 23, in his hotel room in Passo Lavazè, in the Trentino region, in Itália. Ele was participating in a training retreat with Norwegian teammates, in preparation for future competitions, including the Jogos Olímpicos of
The cause of death is still unknown, and Italian authorities are investigating the case. Federação Norueguesa of Biathlon confirmed what happened and highlighted that her thoughts are with the athlete’s family and those close to her.
Bakken had recently competed in the Copa of the Mundo, with a fifth place sprint finish on December 19 and 20th place in the mass start last weekend at
Biathlon trajectory
Sivert Guttorm Bakken was born in Lillehammer, on July 18, 1998, and emerged as a promise in Norwegian biathlon. Ele achieved four victories in stages from Copa to
His career was interrupted in 2023 due to pericarditis, which kept him from the track for almost two years. Apesar from the long recovery period, Bakken demonstrated resilience in returning to international competition this season.
The athlete represented Noruega, one of the dominant powers in world men’s biathlon.
Recent return to the tracks
Bakken returned to Copa from Mundo after overcoming health problems that kept him away since 2022.
In the early stages of the current season, he achieved solid results, including top 20 positions.
- Fifth place in the sprint on December 19th in Annecy.
- 20th place in the mass start in the same place, days later.
- Participation in training retreats to maintain the competitive pace.
These performances indicated a complete recovery and ambitions for bigger events.
Reactions from the international federation
União Internacional of Biathlon (IBU) expressed deep regret at the sudden death of Bakken. The entity highlighted the athlete’s return after difficulties as a source of inspiration for the entire sports community.
The IBU’s thoughts are with family, friends and the Norwegian team. The federation reinforced that Bakken will remain in the memory of everyone involved in biathlon.
Norwegian federation statement
Federação Norueguesa of Biathlon reported that Bakken was found dead in his hotel room in Passo Lavazè. Emilie Nordskar, interim general secretary, stated that the priority is to support the athlete’s family and those close to him.
The entity collaborates with the Italian authorities in investigations. A crisis team was activated to assist athletes and staff affected by the incident.
There are no details about the cause of death, which will be determined by the competent authorities.
Context of the retreat in Val di Fiemme
The Norwegian group was carrying out a training and recovery period in Passo Lavazè, an area known for hosting biathlon team retreats. The location at Val di Fiemme offers ideal conditions for preparation at altitude.
Bakken was part of the group to keep in shape during Copa’s Christmas break. The region is also preparing infrastructure for future Olympic events.
Legacy in Norwegian sport
Bakken contributed to the Noruega tradition of excellence in biathlon, with individual victories in high-level stages.
His return after pericarditis motivated colleagues and fans.
The international biathlon community joins in solidarity with the family and the Norwegian team at this difficult time.
