NORWAY / ITALY — The Norwegian biathlon community is mourning the tragic loss of Sivert Guttorm Bakken, who passed away in December 2025 at the age of 27 during a training camp in Italy. Bakken, a rising star in the sport, was widely recognized for his talent, dedication, and sportsmanship, and his sudden death has left family, teammates, and fans around the world in shock and grief.
Bakken had previously been diagnosed with myocarditis, a heart inflammation condition, in 2022. Despite this medical history, he continued to pursue his passion for biathlon with remarkable determination, impressing coaches and fellow athletes with his work ethic and skill on the course. His performances in national and international competitions had shown significant promise, and many had anticipated a bright future for him within the sport.
During the training camp in Italy, Bakken reportedly collapsed unexpectedly, and efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. The incident has prompted an outpouring of support from the biathlon community, with teammates, coaches, and fans sharing tributes highlighting his dedication, humility, and the inspiration he provided to young athletes.
Norwegian biathlon officials emphasized the importance of health monitoring for athletes and expressed condolences to Bakken’s family. Sivert Guttorm Bakken’s legacy will endure through the impact he had on the sport and the memories he leaves behind, serving as a reminder of the fragility of life and the extraordinary passion of an athlete whose potential was tragically cut short.