As the highly emotional 2024/2025 season moves to its grand finale in Oslo-Holmenkollen, Arnd Peiffer explains the role of the snow in the monumental Total Score fight between Franziska Preuss and Lou Jeanmonnot and lists their main strengths. He praises Sturla Holm Laegreid's consistency but reminds us all that exceptional athletes like JT Boe can rise to the occasion even after unexpected setbacks. And, of course, he tells why the Boe brothers are such impressive athletes.

Franziska Preuss and Lou Jeanmonnot remain locked in a tight battle for the Total Score title, each securing one head-to-head victory in Pokljuka. Snow conditions played a significant role, as Nove Mesto and Pokljuka have not always been venues where the German team had optimal skis, which could partly explain the performance gap between them. Physically, Lou appears slightly stronger at the moment, but Franzi's mental resilience is undeniable. In Nove Mesto, she fought her way back into the top 15 despite three prone shooting errors in the pursuit, and in Pokljuka, she delivered a perfect performance on the range in the Individual.

Oslo has historically been a favourable venue for the German team due to their strong ski performance there. The course could also work in Franzi’s favour, as her strength in the 2:1 technique will be crucial on demanding sections like Gratishaugen or near the church. When it comes to snow conditions, both athletes seem capable of handling wet and compact snow well. While Lou excels in the 1:1 technique and has a physical edge, Franzi is more reliable at the shooting range and could capitalise on that advantage.

Johannes Thingnes Boe competed while sick in the Individual race in Pokljuka and had to skip the Mass Start. However, exceptional athletes like him or Martin Fourcade have proven their ability to bounce back quickly, even after a few days of illness, and return to winning form. Meanwhile, Sturla Holm Laegreid has demonstrated remarkable consistency at a high level. He doesn’t need to win every race but is almost always in the top three or top six, proving that he is more than capable of winning the Total Score. He already showed his potential in the 2020/2021 season and would be a deserving Total Score champion now.

Looking ahead to the next seasons - with no Johannes as an overwhelming favourite - the fight for the big crystal globe is shaping up to be highly competitive. While Sturla could take the reins from JT, there are strong challengers emerging, including Eric Perrot, Quentin Fillon Maillet, Sebastian Samuelsson, and Tommaso Giacomel, alongside the ever-dominant Norwegian team.

The U23 battle is set for a thrilling conclusion in Oslo-Holmenkollen, with Jeanne Richard currently leading Oceane Michelon by 10 points. One of the two Frenchwomen seems poised to take the title, with Michelon standing out as a strong contender. Selina Grotian showed signs of fatigue toward the end of Pokljuka but still delivered strong performances, and she has the potential to achieve top results again in Oslo. With the main spotlight on Franzi Preuss in the overall battle, Selina will be able to focus entirely on her own races.

Finally, Oslo-Holmenkollen will also mark the farewell of the Boe brothers from biathlon. They have defined the sport since 2010, and their legacy is profound. Their ability to combine an open and emotional approach with relentless hunger for success has been truly inspiring. At the same time, they have remained deeply devoted family men, managing a balance between their professional and personal lives - and I find that nothing short of admirable.