Who was Sivert Guttorm Bakken? Norwegian Olympic biathlon hopeful dies at 27 during training in Italy

Sivert Guttorm Bakken, a rising star in Norwegian biathlon and an Olympic hopeful, has died suddenly at the age of 27. His death has shocked the sports world and left the biathlon community in deep sorrow. The International Biathlon Union confirmed the tragic news on Tuesday. In a statement, the sport’s governing body said, “The International Biathlon Union 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.”

According to reports from NRK, Bakken was found dead in his hotel room in the Alpine town of Lavaze, located in the Trentino region of Italy. He was in the country for a training camp. Authorities have not reported any foul play. Bakken had been living with myocarditis, a heart condition, which he was diagnosed with in 2022. Because of this, he stepped away from competition for a period. After treatment and recovery, he worked hard to return to the sport he loved. His comeback was seen as a strong and hopeful moment for many young athletes.

At the time of his death, Bakken was preparing for the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. He was one of Norway’s top hopes in biathlon and had already built an impressive career despite his young age.

Sivert Guttorm Bakken’s career, health battle, and emotional tributes from the biathlon world

Sivert Guttorm Bakken was not just a promising athlete. He was already a champion. He was the reigning European champion in the 10km sprint and had also won two relay titles. In addition, he recorded four World Cup victories and claimed the season-long mass start title during the 2021–22 season. His journey back to biathlon after heart illness made his story even more powerful. Many fans and fellow athletes saw him as a symbol of strength and hope.

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

He continued, “His passing at such a young age is impossible to comprehend but he will not be forgotten and he will forever remain in our hearts.”

The IBU also said, “The IBU’s thoughts are with Sivert´s family and friends, his team and all members of the Norwegian biathlon family at this very difficult time.”

As tributes continue to pour in, Sivert Guttorm Bakken is being remembered not only for his medals, but for his courage, kindness, and fighting spirit.

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