Norwegian biathlon community shocked by death of Sivert Guttorm Bakken – ‘absolutely horrible’

News Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakkenin27, death has shocked the Norwegian biathlon community. The country’s biathlon team has expressed its sadness at Bakken’s passing and sent its condolences to his family.

The International Biathlon Union IBU also published a touching text on its Instagram account shortly after Bakken’s death:

“We are speechless to hear of Sivert’s passing. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, teammates and all those close to him during this difficult time. Hvil i fred, Sivert (rest in peace, Sivert). Know that you are deeply missed.”

Among others, a Norwegian biathlete commented on the publication Ingrid Landmark Dental violencewho was surprised to hear the news.

“This can’t be true… rest in peace Sivert, sending love to your friends and family.”

Also a national team competitor Sturla Holm Lægreid sent forces to the Bakken family.

“Total shock, he was a really nice guy. Strength to his family,” Lægreid wrote.

Biathlon five-time Olympic champion and 23-time world champion John Bö remembered Sivert Guttorm Bakken in his own Instagram post.

“Sivert, it was way too soon. One of the greatest talents in Norwegian biathlon history. Rest in peace, dear Sivert. You will be missed.”

Norwegian TV2 reached the Olympic champion and the world champion Tiril Eckhoffinwho said he was shocked by the news.

“This is absolutely horrible as hell. It’s hard for me to understand it. It’s tragic, sad and everything at the same time,” Eckhoff told TV2

“Sivert was a wonderful man. He was always so positive.”

Also a sports legend Ole Einar Bjørndalen said he was overcome with emotion by the news.

“I’m completely in shock. I really can’t believe this. It’s unspeakable that something like this could happen,” Bjørndalen told TV2.

Bakken suffered a heart attack in 2022, then underwent heart surgery and had to take a break from training. He returned to the World Cup this season.

Bjørndalen said he didn’t know the Bakken very well, but it still made a strong impression.

“From the little I talked to him, he seemed like the nicest guy in the world. He was always in a good mood when I met him. An incredibly nice and extremely patient person after everything he’d been through.”