The French biathlon team has officially determined the first athletes guaranteed to start the new international season in the main squad. According to sporting selection criteria, spots on the World Cup opening stage roster were secured by past top performers, though the team also faces major personnel shifts ahead of the competitions.

Last Season's Leaders and Main Team Berths

Strong finishes in individual races last season allowed Eric Perrot and Quentin Fillon Maillet to automatically qualify for the primary team. As explained by French national teams director Stéphane Bouthiaux, podium finishers in individual races receive absolute priority when forming the roster for opening legs. Thus, Perrot and Fillon Maillet will begin the competitive year in the main squad at the World Cup opener in Kontiolahti, Finland.

For Eric Perrot, the previous season was a triumph: the Frenchman won the World Cup Overall Crystal Globe for the first time in his career and secured four impressive individual victories at the highest level. Meanwhile, Quentin Fillon Maillet consistently proved his elite status by twice stepping onto individual World Cup podiums and winning the pursuit race in Östersund, Sweden. Fillon Maillet's ultimate highlight of the current Olympic cycle was his triumphant performance at the 2026 Olympic Games, where he claimed gold in the sprint and added bronze in the mass start.

Emilien Jacquelin's Switch to Cycling

The third French biasthener who reached the World Cup podium last season and earned a guaranteed spot in the team was Emilien Jacquelin. However, one of the national team's long-standing leaders made a sensational decision to completely skip the upcoming biathlon season. Jacquelin intends to shift his sporting focus entirely and pursue a professional career in road cycling.

Controversial Data

It is worth noting that sports media and analytical sources have actively discussed quotas and final rosters for the French team. While official federation protocols confirm seven quotas at the World Cup start—including an extra spot earned through Gaëtan Paturel's IBU Cup success—some experts express concerns regarding reserve stability amid a lack of experience among younger athletes.

Remaining Roster and Selection Calendar

The holders of the remaining vacant spots will be determined through uncompromising internal competition. The decisive stage of the national selection will be the traditional pre-season race in Ailo (Eyjlu), Norway, scheduled for November 14–15, 2026.

As a reminder, the new World Cup season is set to kick off on the 26th of November with the Kontiolahti stage. Over four action-packed days, biathletes will compete in sprints, pursuit races, as well as classic and single mixed relays.