BMW IBU Biathlon World Cup Ruhpolding

Biathlon in the "Cauldron" Chiemgau Arena

The BMW IBU Biathlon World Cup Ruhpolding has been a firm fixture on the international biathlon calendar for decades. In January, the Chiemgau Arena at the foot of the Chiemgau Alps transforms into one of Bavaria's largest open-air sports arenas: a shooting range with 30 lanes, kilometer-long cross-country ski trails in the forest, and grandstands with space for around 25,000 spectators per competition day.

Six Races in Five Days

The World Cup venue Ruhpolding is, alongside Antholz, Oberhof, and Östersund, one of the classic stops on the IBU season. The program traditionally includes relay, sprint, and pursuit races for women and men. The women's relay is 4×6 kilometers, the men's relay is 4×7.5 kilometers; in the sprint, the athletes cover 7.5 kilometers, the men 10 kilometers.

What to Expect

• International IBU Biathlon Competitions at the highest level
• Around 25,000 spectators per race day
• Supporting program with live broadcasts, athlete sessions, ski boot party
• Sporting tradition with a long history (first World Championship in Ruhpolding in 1979)
• Atmospheric mountain backdrop and torchlight processions in the evening

Ruhpolding – Winter Sports in the Chiemgau

Ruhpolding is located in the Traunstein district and belongs to the Upper Bavarian Chiemgau region. Beyond biathlon, the municipality is a classic winter sports destination – with cross-country ski trails, nearby ski resorts (Westernberg, Steinplatte), an ice stadium, and a central spa park. During the World Cup week, the town itself becomes a small festival mile, with public viewings, hotels at full capacity, and special train connections.