After a season of incredible success, Océane Michelon is full of gratitude and a newfound sense of belonging among the elite. From double silver at the World Championships to clinching the U23 Cup Score, Campbell Wright's season was also nothing short of spectacular. Discover what's next for Oceane and Campbell as their share their plans for the future.

BW: When did you become aware that the under 23 battle might be something special for this season? With four athletes in the race, or like, when did it hit you that you have a chance to win it?

OM: It was truly a pleasure and an honour to be part of such a beautiful competition with Jeanne, who is a close friend. I'm very happy about how everything turned out. I think I learned a lot from pursuing this goal throughout the season. It brought me immense joy and left me with wonderful emotions. I want to express my gratitude to everyone who supported me—my family, my team, my partners, and my friends. Their contributions were invaluable. In any sport, even if it seems individual, there's always a team behind the scenes making it possible. The collective effort and support were incredible, and I'm grateful for every moment of it.

CW: I realised it after the Mass Start in Holmenkollen, and it felt amazing. I am following in the footsteps of Sebastian Samuelsson, Niklas HartSamuelsson, Hartweg, and Giacomel - all huge names and top players in the biathlon world. I'd love to ski as fast as Samuelsson one day.

BW: Oceane, like you said, like your biggest rival was one of your best friends. So how did it feel to compete against Jeanne (Richard)?

OM: Competing against Jeanne was a fantastic way for both of us to elevate our performance. We learned and grew together throughout the season, and it was incredible to experience this journey as a team. From the start, when we realised the competition would be between us and Selena (Grotian), our main goal was to keep the Blue Bib in the Blue house - in France. We agreed that no matter the outcome, we would be happy with the competition because it pushed us to improve and learn so much.

BW: Campbell, you’ve been in this battle with Vitalii Mandzyn for a while. Have you two talked about it?

CW: Yeah, every time we talked, the Blue Bib came up. He made me really nervous when he got fourth in Kontiolahti. I was sweating a bit after that, not gonna lie.

BW: But that was just the first competition, and you were already nervous?

CW: Oh yeah, I was freaking out. I was like, "Oh my goodness, this guy is so strong." And he was. But as the weeks went by, I surprised myself with how well I was doing. It was a bit of a shock.

BW: And what was the highlight for you this season and why?

OM: It’s hard to pick just one highlight because I enjoyed every bit of it. However, a few stand out. My first-ever individual podium finish and a medal in the Mass Start in Lenzerheide was absolutely amazing—it was a surreal experience that filled me with joy. The Relay at the World Championships was another unforgettable moment. Additionally, the Pursuit in Nove Mesto was incredibly special to me. But perhaps the most significant highlight was realising that my success wasn't just luck. It was a result of my hard work and ability.

CW: The highlight was definitely spending time with my lovely girlfriend. But in terms of biathlon, it was the Pursuit at the World Championships. That was just insane.

BW: Oceane, you finished fourth in the Total Score. There is still a small gap to the very top, to Franziska Preuss and Lou Jeanmonnot. What will you focus on in the summer to get there?

OM: I will work on my skiing technique as there is a room for improvement. I will fine-tune my shooting to be more secure in the defining moments of the races next season. The journey of improving in biathlon in a never-ending one. So - a lot to work on in the summer.

BW: Campbell, you finished in the Top 20 in the Total Score, which is awesome, but there's still a gap to the top. What will you focus on most this summer?

CW: I’ll focus on being even more relaxed. I think that's my advantage over the other guys. If I can be even more chilled, I can close that gap.

BW: And other than biathlon - how will your summer look-like?

OM: My plan for the summer is to take some time to enjoy life and have fun. We have an exciting plan for the next year, and I'm really looking forward to it. There will be a lot of traveling, which I love. Most importantly, I want to savour the moments with my team and family. Building confidence and sharing good times with them is a big part of my plan. I aim to continue living these wonderful experiences and making the most of every moment.

CW: Hopefully not as hot as last summer!