Sivert Bakken found dead with oxygen mask on face – immediate reaction: ‘Stop now’

Norwegian biathlete Sivert Bakken was found dead on Tuesday in his hotel room in Lavaze, Italy. His cause of death is not yet known.

Bakken, 27, wore a training mask on his face that limits oxygen uptake. The training mask simulates high altitude training.

According to NRK, Bakken had traveled to Lavaze’s high-altitude camp after last weekend’s Le Grand-Bornand World Cup.

Norwegian top sports unit Olympiatoppen reacted quickly to Bakken’s death. It is not yet known if there was a connection between the use of the mask and Bakken’s death. Despite this, the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation According to NRK Olympiatoppen immediately banned the athletes from using equipment that simulates the conditions of a high place.

“We have been asked a lot of questions about alpine huts and masks. We can say at the moment that these devices are not in use in the activities organized by the Norwegian Biathlon Union”, Olympiatoppen’s acting director. general secretary Emilie Nordskar told NRK.

“We know that a few athletes have acquired such equipment. All use must be in line with Olympic Committee guidelines. The use of these equipment is not prohibited.”

Nordskarin according to Olympiatoppen sent a message to all athletes right on Christmas Eve.

“We sent a message to all athletes that the use of equipment that simulates high altitude conditions must be stopped immediately.”

According to Nordskar, they are now investigating what effects the use of a mask or tent has had on other athletes. It is also important to support Bakken’s family and relatives.

According to Nordskar, there are many rumors about Bakken’s death, but the union will not comment on anything until the official cause of death investigation is completed. The investigation is being conducted in Italy, and a lawyer was sent from Norway to follow the investigation.

Simulating high conditions was prohibited in Norway from 2003–21. After this, the ban was lifted.