In a stunning display of skill and tenacity, the French women’s biathlon relay team secured the gold medal in the 4×6-kilometer event at the Milan Cortina Olympics on January 25, 2026. This victory marks France’s first gold in this event in 34 years, a significant achievement for a team that has shown remarkable progress throughout the games.
Julia Simon delivered an exceptional performance in the final leg, hitting all five targets without hesitation. As she completed her leg of the race, Simon celebrated by waving the French flag, crossing the finish line in a combined time of 1 hour, 10 minutes, 22 seconds. This gold medal adds to her impressive tally, making it her third of the Milan Cortina Games.
Relay Dynamics: From Setbacks to Triumph
The race began with Camillie Bened leading off for France. Despite a challenging standing shoot that forced the team to the back of the pack in 16th place due to one penalty loop, Bened’s performance set the stage for a remarkable comeback. Lou Jeanmonnot took over, skillfully maneuvering the French team back into contention, while Oceane Michelon displayed impressive speed and accuracy, using only one spare shot during her leg to secure a commanding lead.
As the race progressed, defending Olympic champions Sweden faced difficulties in their shooting, which ultimately cost them crucial time. Hannah Oeberg and Maren Kirkeeide of Norway entered the shooting range simultaneously for the final leg. Oeberg required one spare shot to hit her targets, while Kirkeeide needed two, resulting in a time deficit that proved insurmountable. Sweden finished in silver, 51.3 seconds behind France, while Norway claimed bronze, finishing 1 minute, 7 seconds off the pace.
A Look Ahead
With this victory, the French women’s team not only celebrates a historic win but also sets the stage for future competitions. The success at the Milan Cortina Olympics underscores a growing strength in French biathlon, suggesting a promising outlook for subsequent events and competitions.
As fans and athletes alike reflect on this remarkable achievement, the atmosphere in Antelesva, Italy, remains charged with excitement and anticipation for the remaining events of the Olympics. The French team’s triumph is a testament to their hard work and dedication, serving as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the globe.
