The date for the bett1.de Biathlon World Team Challenge 2026 in Gelsenkirchen has been set: On Wednesday, December 30, winter sports fans will once again be able to experience top international athletes up close in the VELTINS-Arena. Tickets for the world's biggest biathlon event are already available - it pays to be quick!
For the 23rd time now, the Schalke stadium will be transformed into a winter sports stage, offering thrilling competitions on the cross-country track and a varied supporting program. Tickets are already on sale and can be purchased at tickets.schalke04.de and in the German Ski Association (DSV) ticket store.
"The biathlon at Schalke has long been more than just a race - it combines world-class sport, thrilling duels and an incomparable atmosphere. Every year, fans from all over Germany and beyond experience an event in the VELTINS-Arena that perfectly combines tradition, excitement and entertainment," says Matthias Tillmann, CEO of FC Schalke 04. "Together with the DSV, we are already planning the next spectacular edition."
The new date of December 30 may initially be unusual for long-time fans. The background to this is a reform of the World Cup calendar by the world federation: next winter, a shortened World Cup will be held directly after the turn of the year for the first time.
"We deliberately chose this date in consultation with everyone involved," explains Stefan Schwarzbach, Director of Communications at the German Ski Association. "This allows the athletes to travel directly from the World Team Challenge to the first World Cup of the new year. This way, we can ensure that absolute world-class athletes are once again at the start and that the focus is fully on the biathlon at the same time. For media, fans and sponsors alike."
Germany aims for title defense
After the triumph of Janina Hettich-Walz and Justus Strelow in the last edition, Germany is entering the competition with a clear goal: to defend the title. Traditionally, two strong German teams will once again be competing in the World Team Challenge 2026. Who will fight for first place for the DSV and which other nations will compete will be announced successively in the coming months.
Special atmosphere in the arena and winter village
The unique atmosphere of the biathlon at Schalke does not stop at the finish line - it extends across the entire event site. Fans can cheer on the athletes up close on the cross-country ski run. Throughout the day, the winter village will be transformed into a meeting place for fun and enjoyment: DJs will provide the beats, hands-on activities will get people moving, sponsor stands will invite visitors to explore and culinary highlights will indulge the senses.
A thrilling entertainment program with live music, spectacular show effects and unforgettable moments makes the biathlon at Schalke an experience that inspires far beyond the sport.
Secure tickets and be there live
Tickets for the biathlon at Schalke on December 30, 2026 are available at tickets.biathlon-aufschalke.de or tickets.schalke04.de, by phone on 0180 | 5378873 or 0209 | 9775 1877 and at the FC Schalke 04 Service Center (Ernst-Kuzorra-Weg 1, 45891 Gelsenkirchen).
