Biathlon: no World Cup in Kontiolahti for Lisa Vittozzi
Concerns about the state of health of Italy’s Lisa Vittozzi, winner of the last Crystal Globe, were not just a smokescreen. At the same time as announcing that she had injured her back at the beginning of the month during the on-snow training camp in Vuokatti (Finland), the Transalpine placed fourth in the second Italian selection sprint in Martell-Val Martello (Italy) on Sunday.
Lisa Vittozzi was not at her best on skis. However, she was positive, indicating that she was confident of regaining her form before the start of the World Cup. Klaus Hoellrigl, Italy’s biathlon boss, confirmed this in the columns of Fondo Italia earlier this week.
However, this Wednesday morning, the Italian Winter Sports Federation (FISI) announced the dreaded thunderbolt: Lisa Vittozzi will not be taking part in the World Cup in Kontiolahti (Finland) and will start her international winter in Hochfilzen (Austria). “She will be preparing in Obertilliach over the next few days with a federal trainer and will be monitored by a physiotherapist from the medical team”, the FISI communication states.
Lisa Vittozzi, even before the start of the season, can virtually kiss her Crystal Globe goodbye. With three missed individual races and uncertain form over the rest of December, she will be dropping big points and should not be in a position to top the overall standings at the end of the season.
