France’s Eric Perrot claimed his fourth World Cup win of the season in Kontiolahti. Photo: J. Artika

07.03.2026

Eric Perrot Takes Victory – Tuomas Harjula Has an “Almost Perfect Race” with Home Crowd Support

Kontiolahti Biathlon World Cup

France’s Eric Perrot claimed his fourth World Cup win of the season by taking first place with clean shooting in the 20 km individual race in Kontiolahti. The home crowd was especially delighted by Tuomas Harjula’s success. Harjula reached 11th place.

Perrot was joined on the podium by two Norwegians: Sturla Holm Laegreid took second place, and Vetle Sjaastad Christiansen was third. The Norwegians also completed the race without any penalties.

Laegreid continued the podium streak that started at the Olympics, where he won three silvers and two bronzes.

Perrot gained extra pep from leading both the total World Cup and the Individual standings, which is why he competed in the Yellow/Red bib.

“My main goal today was to focus on shooting. I’m happy that I did a good one. On the track the shape was also good; I enjoyed my race,” Perrot said in an interview with biathlonworld.com.

Seppala: “It was great to compete with such strong support”

Tuomas Harjula finished the race with one penalty and placed 11th. He was 3:16.9 behind the winner.

“The race was almost perfect except for that one penalty, and the result reflects that. A very good race. There were good drafting opportunities and the skis were good, it was enjoyable to ski. The cheering along the track and at the range was really nice,” Harjula said, thanking the audience.

Among the other Finns, Tero Seppala missed two shots and finished 15th, Olli Hiidensalo was 37th with three penalties, and Arttu Heikkinen finished 47th with four penalties.

Seppala was also in good spirits.

“A good race today. It was great to compete with such strong support. Let’s keep this up for the rest of the weekend,” Seppala said with a smile.

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Finnish text: Heidi Lehikionen
English text: Hanna Sairanen