Boe Brothers Bid Emotional Farewell To Biathlon

OSLO, March 23, 2025 — A new chapter in biathlon begins today as brothers Johannes Thingnes Boe and Tarjei Boe officially retire from the sport, marking the end of an era filled with triumph and remarkable achievements. The duo, celebrated for their outstanding careers, bids farewell to the competitive world during the mass-start event that concluded the 2024-2025 biathlon season.

Both biathletes have dominated their sport. Johannes, 31, leaves the stage with an impressive tally of eight Olympic medals, including five golds, and 43 world championship medals, 23 of which are gold. His achievements in biathlon extend to five victories in the overall world cup standings and 91 individual World Cup wins. Meanwhile, his older brother Tarjei, known for his steadfast performance, walks away with six Olympic medals, including three gold, 28 world championship medals (12 gold), and 15 World Cup victories. Their combined legacy includes a staggering 106 World Cup victories and a total of 85 medals.

The celebration in Oslo, held at the iconic Holmenkollen venue, drew fans and fellow athletes alike, all eager to honor the brothers’ contributions to biathlon. The event is set to showcase not just the conclusion of their careers but also the camaraderie and sportsmanship that they brought to the sport over the years.

“We’re almost already retired in our heads,” said Johannes, humorously reflecting on their shift from active competitors to retired athletes. As the brothers prepared for their final competitive moments, they expressed a mix of nostalgia and excitement for what lies ahead.

The atmosphere during the mass start echoed with the cheers of fans who have followed the brothers’ journey from the beginning. While the brothers will not race again, they leave a legacy that will inspire future generations of biathletes.

Tarjei added more light-hearted humor during their farewell, noting, “Now we’re going to put on weight; people won’t recognize us in six months!” Johannes chimed in, “In a month, everyone will be focusing on the Olympics, while we’ll still be sprawled on the couch.”

Today’s event not only marks their exit from professional biathlon but also symbolizes a significant moment in sports history. The Boe brothers are recognized not only for their competitive spirit but also for their ability to connect with fans through their authenticity and charm.

The impact of their retirement on the sport is profound. Two legends walking away means a shift in the competitive landscape of biathlon as emerging athletes prepare to step into the spotlight. The following season will usher in a new era without the Boes, a change that has already set the stage for great anticipation and speculation around who will rise to take their place.

As they take their final bows, the brothers leave behind a legacy that transcends mere numbers. Their influence on the sport of biathlon, characterized by a focus on excellence and sportsmanship, has set a benchmark for athletes to aspire to.

The 2024-2025 biathlon season reached its climax today not only with the brothers’ retirement but also with the exciting competition among the next generation of athletes. The women’s mass start concluded with French biathlete Lou Jeanmonnot capturing significant moments, albeit with a heartbreaking fall that saw her miss out on the coveted big crystal globe.

In today’s nail-biting finish, Lou Jeanmonnot and German competitor Franziska Preuss battled fiercely for supremacy. Both athletes showcased resilience, but a fall allowed Preuss to take the advantage and ultimately secure her victory, leaving Jeanmonnot and fans celebrating her remarkable season on one side while mourning a hard-fought but costly error.

In light of the Boe brothers’ final appearance, comments from competitors and fans spotlight the emotional weight of the day. “It’s hard to imagine biathlon without them,” said a fellow athlete, encapsulating the sentiment shared among many gathered to witness this historic farewell.

With the brothers’ names now etched in history, the biathlon community gathers together to reflect on their legacy, looking at the shared memories that shaped countless moments over the years. While their careers may have ended, the inspiration they'll continue to provide as icons of the sport is indelible.

As Johannes and Tarjei Boe officially step away from competition today, they will forever be remembered as pioneers, champions, and beloved figures in the world of biathlon. Their journey, though concluded, will resonate through their remarkable stories and accomplishments, encouraging others in the sport to challenge their own limits in the years to come.