Last winter saw the introduction of a new point system for its three main series, with the winner receiving 90 points instead of 60 points and every World Cup competition counting towards the Total Score. At the same time, the BMW IBU World Championships competitions are no longer part of the Total Score.

This winter, three rule changes in particular are important to keep in mind ahead of the first World Cup competitions.

1. Introduction of the full fluor ban

Starting this winter, no more fluor products are allowed in the preparation of skis, resulting in one of the biggest changes in biathlon in many many years. The system has been tried and tested in cooperation with National Federations and their technicians.

Click here to take a look at the most important information about the testing procedure as well as the yellow and red card system.

2. Standardised 4x6km Mixed Relays

On Saturday, 25 November, the BMW IBU World Cup Season begins with two relays – starting this season, all Mixed Relays will see each leg and gender ski a 2km loop three times to facilitate course preparation and the conduction of the competition.

3. Personal Start Right Extension

This season, the IBU Cup winners of the previous season will receive a personal start right for the first and the second BMW IBU World Cup (Oestersund and Hochfilzen) as opposed to just the first BMW IBU World Cup.

Last winter, Tilda Johansson (SWE) and Endre Stroemsheim (NOR) lifted the Total Score trophy in the IBU Cup.

In the 2023/2024 season, this personal start right will turn into an additional quota place for the National Federation of the IBU Cup winner but it will still apply to the first two World Cup stages.

Additionally, rifle handle regulations at the shooting range have been tightened to increase safety for athletes and participants.

Pictures: IBU Photopool