Sivert Guttorm Bakken, 27, dies while he was at an Olympic training camp

Sivert Guttorm Bakken, a Norwegian skier who hoped to make the national team for the 2026 Cortina Games in Milan, died during the Olympic training camp in Italy, officials said. He was 27.

Bakken’s death was described as “sudden”.

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He was found dead in his hotel room in Lavaze in the Trentino region of Italy, according to Norwegian media. He was diagnosed with myocarditis in 2022 and took a break from competition at that time. He returned in 2024.

“The International Biathlon Union (IBU) is deeply saddened to learn that Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken has passed away at the age of 27 during a training camp in Italy,” the sport’s governing body said.

IBU chairman Olle Dahlin added that the sport was saddened by his death.

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Sivert Guttorm Bakken of Norway competes during the men’s 15 km mass start race at the Biathlon World Championships in Anterselva, Italy, on January 22, 2022. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader, File)

“IBU is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic news of Sivert Bakken’s sudden death,” said Dahlin. “Sivert’s comeback to biathlon after a period of great adversity was a source of immense joy for everyone in the biathlon family and an inspiring demonstration of his resilience and determination.

“His passing at such a young age is impossible to understand, but he will not be forgotten and he will forever remain in our hearts. The IBU’s thoughts go out to Sivert’s family and friends, his team and all members of the Norwegian biathlon family at this very difficult time.”

Sivert Guttorm Bakken of Norway competes during the mixed relay race at the Biathlon World Cup in Otepaa, Estonia, on March 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Roman Koksarov, File)

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Bakken was the reigning European champion in the 10 kilometer sprint and two relays.