Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid is speaking candidly about the physical and emotional strain he experienced during and after the recent Olympic Games. Following a successful showing in Beijing, where he secured a bronze medal in the 20km individual event and a gold medal in the 4×7.5km relay, Lægreid revealed he struggled with eating and sleeping, leading to weight loss. The 28-year-old is now preparing for the World Cup in Kontiolahti, Finland, whereas acknowledging he’s still working to regain his strength.
Lægreid’s comments came during an interview with Norwegian broadcaster NRK, where he described a physical reaction to the pressure of competition. “I suppose anyone who has felt something similar can relate,” he said, as reported by NRK. “It’s a physical reaction. That’s just how This proves, it’s part of the package.” This openness follows a previous interview after the Olympic bronze medal win that sparked considerable reaction, prompting Lægreid to issue apologies for his remarks.
The biathlete, who currently competes for Bærums SK, detailed the difficulties he faced maintaining his physical condition throughout the Olympic period. “It was difficult to eat and sleep, so I’ve become thinner than I should be,” Lægreid told NRK. He added that returning home to Bærum has allowed him to focus on recovery and rebuilding his strength through proper nutrition. Sturla Holm Lægreid has quickly become a prominent figure in biathlon, with a growing list of accomplishments.
Lægreid’s upcoming competition in Kontiolahti marks a return to the World Cup circuit after the Olympic Games. He expressed some apprehension about his current form, stating, “I hope we get a lot of good food here, so I can eat well and build myself up again, but I’m excited about my form.” He also acknowledged that he is entering a three-week tour with a lingering deficit from the Olympics, including a weight loss of several kilograms.
Seeking Support
Recognizing the need for support, Lægreid revealed he has been working with a psychologist. “I talked a little with a psychologist and such, but I can also recommend it if you’re going through something in life. To have someone to talk to. Whether it’s friends, family, or a psychologist,” he said. “Anything is better than nothing.” This proactive approach to mental wellbeing highlights the pressures faced by elite athletes.
Recent Successes and Future Outlook
Lægreid’s Olympic success builds on a strong foundation of achievements in the biathlon world. According to his Wikipedia profile, he has secured 16 individual World Cup victories and 34 total victories across all races as of March 23, 2025. He was also crowned the overall Biathlon World Cup winner for the 2024-2025 season and has earned five discipline titles: two in Individual, two in Pursuit, and one in Mass Start. He has a total of 6 Olympic medals and 14 World Championship medals.
The upcoming World Cup in Kontiolahti will be a key test for Lægreid as he aims to regain peak condition and continue his impressive run in the sport. The biathlon season continues with a demanding schedule, and Lægreid’s ability to manage both his physical and mental health will be crucial for sustained success. His willingness to discuss these challenges openly could also encourage other athletes to prioritize their wellbeing.
As Lægreid prepares for the challenges ahead, his focus remains on rebuilding his strength and regaining his competitive edge. The biathlon world will be watching closely to observe how he performs in Kontiolahti and beyond.
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