Uros Velepec has officially resigned from his role as the head coach of the German biathlon team, marking a pivotal moment for the squad just two days after the conclusion of the Biathlon World Championships held in Lenzerheide, Switzerland. The German Ski Association (DSV) announced Velepec's resignation, which takes effect immediately, stating it is part of necessary adjustments for the upcoming Olympic season.
The decision came after discussions described as founded on trust between Velepec and the DSV sports management. "This is not a spontaneous decision and has little to do with our results at the World Championships, even though we had, of course, all planned to do much more," Velepec explained in his statement. The resignation follows the team’s mixed performance at the championships, where they secured five medals overall, but the men's team did not capture any individual medals, raising concerns about their competitive level.
Felix Bitterling, the sports director of biathlon at the DSV, acknowledged Velepec's contributions, reflecting on their time working together and his capability to inspire athletes. "We have known Uros as a coach who can win and inspire athletes," Bitterling noted, affirming the unusual timing of Velepec’s resignation mid-season was necessitated by the need for fresh approaches.
Stepping up to fill Velepec's role is Tobias Reiter, who has been involved with the national team and was previously the men's head coach for the IBU Cup. Reiter’s appointment hints at continuity, with the DSV aiming for stability as they transition. "We want to lay the groundwork for the upcoming Olympic season during the remaining weeks of the World Cup,” Bitterling stated, emphasizing the importance of these next steps for the team’s future.
Reflecting on his decision, Velepec mentioned, "There needs to be new momentum, perhaps also a new form of discourse," as he recognized challenges the team currently faces. He expressed his belief the team could improve with enough time and discussed his hopes to see the progress from the work they have done together bear fruit. His comments about the team’s current performance highlighted frustrations but also optimism for growth.
With Reiter taking charge, he has already established relationships with many athletes and aims to bolster team morale. The DSV is anticipating this change will energize the team, fabricing hope for improvements leading up to the 2026 Olympic Games.
This shift within the coaching staff signals the DSV’s willingness to adapt and respond to the unique challenges posed by high-stakes competitions. Velepec’s exit, though sudden, could pave the way for the rejuvenation the squad needs as they prepare for Olympic trials and competitions.
Velepec's departure marks not just the end of one chapter but potentially the beginning of another for the German men's biathlon team. The upcoming weeks will be telling as the DSV navigates this significant transition, aiming to build on existing strengths and set clear goals for future competitions.