Commitment to winter sports:
Volunteers prepare for the biathlon competitions in Oberhof
While the world's top biathletes kick off the Olympic winter season in Östersund, Sweden, excitement is also building in Oberhof: the volunteers for the BMW IBU Biathlon World Cup 2026 are preparing for their big assignment. Today's kick-off marks the start of the intense preparation phase.
They are referees or stewards in the ARENA and along the track, ensure that fans arrive and depart quickly,
are responsible for catering in the hut village, sit at the box office, sell fan merchandise, or bring the supporting program to life: Between 620 and 700 volunteers will support the organizers of the BMW IBU Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof on each day of competition and will shape the event from January 8 to 11,
2026 with their experience and passion. "I cannot emphasize this enough: You contribute significantly to the success of the competitions and the entire event. We are very grateful for your commitment," said Bernd Wernicke, head of the organizing committee and managing director of Oberhofer Sport und Event GmbH.
Former biathlete now chief of competition
In the run-up to the 2025/2026 competition season, several key positions in the organizational department have been filled. At the helm of the competition department is now Peter Sendel, former world-class biathlete, who is taking on the role of competition director. "I am very much looking forward to the new task. I would like to contribute my experience to the organization of one of the most important winter sports events in Thuringia and do my part to ensure that athletes, coaches, and fans have an unforgettable experience," says the 53-year-old, who passed the International Referee exam in the fall of 2024and served as competition secretary at the last World Cup.
The competition director's tasks are varied. As the link between the organizer, associations, and teams, Peter Sendel has to make important decisions, even under time pressure, coordinate processes, and ensure that competitions run smoothly. "Peter knows exactly what matters. He brings enormous expertise and, at the same time, the passion that only someone who has experienced competitions at the highest level can have," says Bernd Wernicke.
He is supported by the new competition secretary Christopher Schwarz, who is responsible for the administrative and organizational processes. Starting this year, the shooting range will be managed
by Dennis Baumann. Jens Weigel is now responsible for the team area.
Over 20,000 volunteer hours
The majority of volunteers are organized in Thuringian winter sports clubs. With 75 volunteers, the Goldlauter-Heidersbach Ski and Hiking Club provides the most supporters. It is followed by the Eintracht Frankenhain e.V. ski club with 57 registered volunteers and the WSV Schmiedefeld/Rstg. e.V. with 46 registered volunteers. In total, the volunteers will contribute over 20,000 volunteer hours before, during, and after the World Cup.