Lisa Vittozzi is making a triumphant return to the biathlon world after enduring a challenging year marked by a serious back injury. The celebrated athlete, who clinched the overall World Cup title during the 2023/24 season, found herself sidelined when a back injury in November 2024 forced her to sit out the entire 2024/25 season. Now, with her sights set on the 2026 Winter Olympics in Antholz, Vittozzi is eager to reclaim her place among the sport's elite.
It was a shocking turn of events for the 30-year-old biathlete, who had been in peak form and ready to defend her title. "It was a shock and I had to take the time to deal with it," Vittozzi shared during a recent media day organized by the Italian winter sports association. The injury came at a particularly inopportune moment, as she was poised to continue her success on the world stage.
Reflecting on her time away from competition, Vittozzi described the experience as "four very hard months, both physically and mentally." She expressed the emotional toll of not being able to compete, stating that it was "destabilizing" to watch from the sidelines. During this period, she was forced to confront her limitations and the importance of recovery.
Currently, Vittozzi is engaged in a specialized rehabilitation program designed to manage her pain and gradually acclimate her body to the rigors of competitive sports. "I am satisfied because I feel progress every day. That makes me much more relaxed," she explained, radiating optimism about her recovery.
With about ten months remaining until the Olympics, Vittozzi is determined to regain her top form. Her comeback is highly anticipated, as she has demonstrated both mental and physical resilience in overcoming setbacks. "My body reacts well and bit by bit I notice that it is better," she remarked, reflecting her growing confidence as she prepares for the upcoming season.
Vittozzi's journey has also imparted valuable lessons about self-care and the importance of listening to her body. "I learned that you should follow the signals of the body and head and take your space and breaks," she reflected, insights that will undoubtedly aid her in navigating the pressures of elite athletics in the future.
As she gears up for the Milan Cortina Olympics, Vittozzi's aspirations are clear. She aims not only to participate but to secure her first Olympic gold medal. Despite her previous successes, including two world championship victories—one in the relay at Oberhof 2023 and another in the individual event at Nove Mesto in 2024—an Olympic title has eluded her thus far. Her only Olympic achievement to date is a bronze medal from the mixed relay at the PyeongChang 2018 Games.
Vittozzi's determination is palpable as she sets her sights on the future. "I am ready and calm," she stated, emphasizing her newfound perspective after her difficult period. Having turned thirty recently, she feels a sense of urgency to capitalize on her experience and maturity as an athlete. Her previous triumphs, coupled with her recent challenges, have shaped her into a more aware and resilient competitor.
While she was unable to defend her World Cup title this past season, Vittozzi is now focused on the Olympic journey ahead. "It was a difficult period, I didn't expect it because the preparation had gone very well," she noted, recalling her initial optimism before her injury. After attempting to push through the pain, she ultimately made the difficult decision to withdraw from the season to prioritize her long-term health and Olympic ambitions.
Looking ahead, Vittozzi is excited about the possibilities that await her. "I feel better, my body responds to the work and I feel more serene," she shared, indicating that she is ready to embrace the challenges of the upcoming season. The biathlon world will undoubtedly be watching closely as she embarks on this new chapter of her career.
As the countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics begins, Lisa Vittozzi stands at a pivotal moment in her career. With her sights firmly set on achieving Olympic success, she is determined to make her mark and prove that she is back and better than ever. The journey may have been fraught with challenges, but her resilience and commitment to her sport are sure to inspire both fans and fellow athletes alike.
