Emotional Tributes to Sivert Guttorm Bakken at Oberhof World Cup Following His Tragic Death

Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken was honored with emotional tributes at the World Cup sprint event in Oberhof, Germany, following his tragic death at age 27. Bakken was found dead in his hotel room in Lavazé, Italy, just before Christmas Eve 2025, a loss that has deeply affected his teammates and the international biathlon community.

Prior to the men's sprint race, a minute-long applause filled the arena while a tribute video highlighted Bakken's career, moving athletes and spectators to tears. Norwegian teammates, visibly emotional, refrained from wearing the number one starting bib as a mark of respect; instead, the first starter wore number two. Norwegian athletes also wore black mourning bands throughout the competition.

The Norwegian team ensured psychological support by having a psychologist present in Oberhof, recognizing the heavy emotional toll. Fellow athletes and commentators expressed sorrow and disbelief—Swedish expert Björn Ferry said, “Just now it is difficult to talk,” while Italian biathlete Tommaso Giacomel lamented, “It was meant for him to be here, but he is not. It is terrible.” Swedish skier Martin Ponsiluoma described the atmosphere as somber and empty.

These heartfelt commemorations underscore Bakken’s impact on Nordic sports and the close bonds within the biathlon community as they continue to grieve his unexpected loss.