Biathlon Youth Shines: Fichtner and Pfund Win - German duo triumphs in biathlon’s mixed relay at Nové Město World Cup
Germany’s Marlene Fichtner and Leonhard Pfund claimed victory in the single mixed relay at the World Cup in Nové Město. Their win came despite tough competition and the absence of several top Olympians. The pair triumphed even after using four spare rounds in the shooting stages.
This was only Pfund’s second World Cup race, yet he delivered a standout performance. His debut earlier in the season had already turned heads, with a 13th-place finish. Fichtner, meanwhile, entered the relay fresh from setting a career-best result in the individual race the day before.
The German duo crossed the line 6.5 seconds ahead of Finland’s Tero Seppälä and Suvi Minkkinen, who secured second place. France’s Jeanne Richard and Émilien Claude finished third, rounding out the podium. Both Fichtner and Pfund’s strong showings earned them spots in Sunday’s mass start event. Earlier in January 2025, Fichtner had also won a mixed relay in Nové Město, this time partnering with Justus Streit. Her consistency in relay events has now helped Germany secure back-to-back victories in the discipline.
The win marks a significant achievement for Pfund in his early World Cup career. Fichtner’s continued success in relays further cements her reputation as a key athlete for Germany. Their performance ensures both will compete again in the upcoming mass start race.
