by In a remarkable display of skill and precision, Julia Simon and Fabien Claude made history by clinching the World Team Challenge title for the second consecutive year at Veltins-Arena in Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
As anticipated by Fabien Claude, who confidently expressed their intent to reclaim the title, the French duo faced stiff competition from the Norwegian duo consisting of Sturla Holm Lægreid and Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold, who started the race as the bookmaker’s favourites. However, Simon and Claude delivered an outstanding performance, combining skiing speed and accuracy on the shooting range to create a substantial lead during the mass start.
The Pursuit segment saw the French pair maintain their dominance, expanding their advantage over Norway. Despite a momentary setback with two standing errors from Fabien Claude, Julia Simon’s flawless 20/20 shooting performance ensured a resounding victory. With a final score of 37/40, they became the first team in the history of the World Team Challenge to successfully defend their title, finishing 57.5 seconds ahead of the Norwegian team (37/40).
Julia Simon’s performance indicates that maybe she can come from behind to defend her overall World Cup title.
Slovenia’s Polona Klemencic and Jakov Fak secured the third spot on the podium, as Fak outsprinted Roman Rees down the home straight. The third-place finish came after a strong shooting performance, Team Slovenia hit 38 of 40 targets in the Pursuit race. Germany’s Janina Hettich-Walz and Roman Rees claimed the fourth position (36/40).
The unique setting of a football stadium added to the memorable experience, with Fabien Claude expressing his appreciation for the event’s distinctive atmosphere. The day concluded with a strong sense of accomplishment for the Vosges, as they once again etched their names in the annals of the World Team Challenge history.
Final Standings:
1. Julia Simon/Fabien Claude 🇫🇷
2. Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold/Sturla Holm Lægreid 🇳🇴 +57.5
3. Polona Klemencic/Jakov Fak 🇸🇮 +1:08.2
4. Janina Hettich-Walz/Roman Rees 🇩🇪 +1:10.1
5. Yuliia Dzhyma/Dmytro Pidruchnyi 🇺🇦 +1:30.5
6. Hanna Kebinger/Benedikt Doll 🇩🇪 +1:32.2
7. Lotte Lie/Florent Claude 🇧🇪 +1:37.3
8. Marketa Davidova/Michal Krcmar 🇨🇿 +1:58.1
9. Amy Baserga/Sebastian Stalder 🇨🇭 +1:59.1
10. Lisa Theresa Hauser/Felix Leitner 🇦🇹 +2:24.5
