The biathlon world remains in shock after the surprising death of Sivert Guttorm Bakken. The Norwegian passed away shortly before Christmas at the age of 27.
According to initial findings, Bakken was found dead in his hotel room in the Italian winter sports resort of Lavaze during a training camp. His death had caused great sympathy.
Further details are now known. Bakken was wearing an altitude training mask when he was found dead in his hotel room. The Norwegian Biathlon Federation announced this.
“The circumstances of the acquisition and use of this mask” are currently not known, the federation stated in a press release.
More precise information on this matter would be received in the coming days.
Bakken’s Autopsy Takes Place in Italy
The federation also announced that Bakken’s autopsy will be carried out on site in Italy.
“Police and forensic medicine will clarify the course of events and the cause of death. As soon as we have further information, we will inform the press,” the federation announced.
In addition, Emilie Nordskar, the interim Secretary General of the Norwegian Biathlon Federation, appealed to the media: “We understand the media’s need for information, but at the same time, it is essential that the police and forensic investigators on site are given the necessary peace to do their work and ascertain the facts.”
Biathlon Star Dead – Role of Mask Remains Unclear
A connection between Bakken’s death and the altitude training mask is currently unclear. No information will be provided at present regarding a possible causal link.
An altitude mask reduces the oxygen content of the inhaled air, which causes the body to produce more red blood cells and thus increases endurance. The mask is often used in sports to simulate altitude and reduce oxygen availability.
Lavaze, the place where Bakken was found dead, is located at an altitude of around 1800 meters. He was one of several Norwegian athletes who were supposed to participate in the altitude competition in Italy over Christmas.
Bakken Had Returned After a Long Period of Suffering
Bakken debuted in the World Cup in March 2022. In the same year, he celebrated his first World Cup victory in the mass start at Holmenkollen in Oslo.
Shortly thereafter, he had to temporarily interrupt his career due to myocarditis.
“It took the whole summer, almost half a year, until I received a diagnosis,” the Norwegian described last year.
After strong performances in the IBU Cup last winter, Bakken returned to the World Cup for the current season. There he immediately impressed with several top-10 finishes.