Sivert Guttorm Bakken: Norwegian biathlete dies aged 27

Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken, who hoped to compete in the Winter Olympics in February, has died at the age of 27.

Bakken returned to competition in 2024 after being held out since 2022 due to the heart condition myocarditis.

The president of the International Biathlon Union said his return to the sport was “a source of tremendous joy”.

“Sivert’s return to biathlon after great difficulties was a source of great joy for everyone in the biathlon family and an inspiring demonstration of her endurance and determination,” said Olle Dahlin. he said.

“It is impossible to understand his passing at such a young age, but he will not be forgotten and will remain in our hearts forever.”

According to local media reports, Bakken was found dead in his hotel room in Lavaze in the Italian Alps, where he attended a training camp.