Illness hits Germany biathlon team at Milano Cortina Winter Olympics 2026 as teammates fall sick

Germany’s Winter Olympics campaign has suffered a sudden setback after several biathlon athletes became ill during the Games. The team had started strongly and even won bronze in the mixed relay, raising hopes of more medals. However, those plans were disrupted when competitors reported stomach problems at their accommodation. One athlete had to withdraw from a race, while others struggled physically. Officials say the problem appears temporary, but the timing has created concern before key medal events.

The biggest blow came when Janina Hettich-Walz pulled out of the women’s sprint at the last moment. Teammate Vanessa Voigt also raced while feeling unwell and finished only 12th despite perfect shooting. Reports suggest the sickness was likely caused by food rather than infection. Athletes from another country staying in the same complex were also affected. Germany’s coaching staff now hopes recovery comes quickly before pursuit and relay races begin later this week.

Athletes fall sick before crucial races in Milano Cortina Winter Olympics 2026

According to German media and as reported by The Sun, the issue is not believed to be a virus outbreak. Instead, the team may have eaten food that upset their stomachs earlier in the week. Burgers served at their lodging are suspected. Only some members were affected, but Janina Hettich-Walz and Vanessa Voigt were reportedly bedridden for a period.

Czech athlete Jessica Jislova, who stayed in the same accommodation, also withdrew from her sprint race after falling ill. As a safety step, the German team separated athletes into single rooms instead of shared apartments.

Franziska Preuss explained the change, “We were previously six people in one apartment, and now we’ve simply split up again.”

Team officials believe the illness will not have long-term effects. Sports director Felix Bitterling told BILD, “We assume they ate something that didn’t agree with them. It was only a problem for one night. For Janina, it was a night later. That’s why she wasn’t fit enough for the sprint. But our medical department, our team doctor, is very confident that it’s nothing serious.”

The situation is worrying because the pursuit races are scheduled soon, followed by relay events. Germany had been aiming for multiple podium finishes after their early bronze medal. Coaches and medical staff are monitoring the athletes closely and expect them to recover in time to compete again.





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