2026 Olympics | Biathlon: Oscar Lombardot unlikely to compete despite Olympic selection
A substitute in the French men’s biathlon team, Oscar Lombardot is an integral part of the Olympic squad. Despite this, he is not certain of taking part in a race. With the world championships, this is the fourth time I’ve been a substitute,” he explained to France 3 Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. It’s a role where you have to take a back seat but still be there if you’re asked to race.
Always with a smile on his face, the 25-year-old biathlete had to make his way to Italy. His World Cup results this season earned him one of the last two Olympic tickets alongside Quentin Fillon-Maillet, Eric Perrot, Fabien Claude and Emilien Jacquelin. Although they take part in all the training sessions, Oscar Lombardot and the youngest of the Claude siblings watch the races from the trackside or at the hotel.
“Everyone could take part in a start with another team, except perhaps with the Norwegian team… These are rich people’s problems.Oscar Lombardot interviewed by France 3
“It‘ s a bit frustrating to think you could perform well and be a substitute, but at the same time that’s the problem, or the good fortune, of being French. There’s a lot of density in this team. Everyone could start in another team, except perhaps with the Norwegian team… These are rich people’s problems,” he relativises.
Despite this, Oscar Lombardot is enjoying the magic of his first Olympic Games. In particular, he was lucky enough to take part in the Opening Ceremony on Friday 6 February. ” I’m making the most of everything I have to take,” he sums up.
His parents also joined him on the Italian tour. His father, Jean-Yves Lombardot, emphasises his son’s professionalism. “He’s good-humoured and serious. All that can contribute to the overall success of his team “, says the Franc-Comtois, reminding us of his son’s essential role in the team, “even without skis “.
Florence Lombardot, his mother, is happy for her son. The young biathlete’s non-participation is also good for his morale. It‘ s great to be able to feel for others and not be distressed by her child’s stress,” she says. You’re very happy to be part of the collective joy.
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