The two-person teams will start shortly before midday. The competition promises to be very exciting. The winners and the podium spots will probably be decided between the very best athletes from Sweden, Norway, France and Germany. The only race thus far in Östersund was won by Sebastian Samuelsson and Hanna Öberg from the host nation Sweden. Norway finished in 2nd place, with France rounding off the podium. Sweden will be sending Samuelsson and Mona Brorsson to compete this time, while the Norwegians are fielding Vetle Sjaastad Christiansen and overall World Cup leader Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold.

Host Italy also has an outside chance. Local heroes Rebecca Passler and Lukas Hofer will be competing for the “Azzurri." While Passler finished 26th in the women's singles, Lukas Hofer from Montal did not do well and had to settle for 65th place. Now the South Tyroleans will be hoping for a big surprise in the Single Mixed Relay.

Norway's mixed relay team virtually unbeatable

The mixed relay starts at 2:45 pm. Norway is the clear top favourite here. The Scandinavian quartet is extremely versatile and has the best team on paper with individual winner Johannes Thingnes Bø, his brother Tarjei as well as Juni Arnekleiv and Karoline Knotten. Yet the only mixed relay race so far this season in Östersund was won by France, ahead of Norway and Italy. The "Azzurri" featuring Tommaso Giacomel, Didier Bionaz, Dorothea Wierer and Lisa Vittozzi have put together the best possible team and are emphasising their aspirations to achieve a top result in the Südtirol Arena. Of course, Germany and Sweden are also to be reckoned with.