"We have been working optimistically for months on the organisation of the upcoming World Cup races with at least a reduced number of spectators and with a sophisticated safety concept that meets all the requirements, but due to the current dramatic developments in the Covid-19 case and the forecasts for the coming weeks, we are forced to stage Antholz 2022 WITHOUT spectators in the stadium," regrets OC head Lorenz Leitgeb.

It is a wistful but precautionary decision that was made in consultation with the responsible government authorities in order to guarantee the highest level of safety for everyone. The health of all athletes, participants and spectators has top priority.

All ticket buyers will of course be refunded the ticket price they have already paid. Since this - together with many other changes that will now be made - is very time-consuming, the OC Antholz asks the fans for a little patience. The corresponding processing will take place immediately after the biathlon events. All the relevant information will follow.

Now the OC wants to put all its energy into the organisation of the competitions. "We want to organise exciting, high-quality competitions and thus - even if unfortunately in an unusual way - do justice to the name and the own demands of Biathlon Antholz", promises Leitgeb. Thrilling competition pictures and spectacular landscape shots from Antholz are to be brought home to the fans once again "digitally" via TV and social media.

"And then we are already looking forward to Anterselva in 2023, where we hope to finally welcome all spectators to the Biathlon World Cup in the South Tyrol Arena again and celebrate a true international biathlon festival together," Leitgeb looks ahead.