Norwegian Biathlon Medalist Admits Cheating on Girlfriend in Interview
Sturla Holm Laegreid, the Norwegian biathlete, made headlines during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Anterselva, Italy, for a surprising revelation. Following his bronze medal win in the men’s 20-kilometer individual biathlon race on February 10, Laegreid confessed to cheating on his girlfriend during a live interview.
Unexpected Confession at the Olympics
In a moment filled with emotion, Laegreid addressed his unfaithfulness while speaking with Norwegian broadcaster NRK. “Six months ago, I met the love of my life. Three months ago, I made the biggest mistake of my life and cheated on her,” he shared, visibly upset.
Laegreid disclosed that he had informed his partner about the incident a week prior. He admitted, “I’m sure many people now see me in a different light, but I only have eyes for her.” His focus on personal matters overshadowed his sporting achievement, as he reflected on how his actions affected both his life and feelings for his girlfriend.
Shooting Performance and Medal Table
Despite his personal turmoil, Laegreid’s performance in the competition was commendable. He secured the bronze medal, finishing 48.3 seconds behind gold medalist Johan-Olav Botn, who shot flawlessly in his Olympic debut. Eric Perrot from France took the silver medal, 14.8 seconds behind Botn.
| Medal | Athlete | Country | Time Behind |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | Johan-Olav Botn | Norway | 0:00 |
| Silver | Eric Perrot | France | 14.8 seconds |
| Bronze | Sturla Holm Laegreid | Norway | 48.3 seconds |
Reflections on Choices and Regrets
Laegreid’s post-race emotions were marked by introspection and guilt. He expressed concern about overshadowing his teammate, Botn, saying, “Now I hope I didn’t ruin Johan’s day. Maybe it was really selfish of me to give that interview.” He emphasized that his mental state was affected and that he wished to focus on earning back his girlfriend’s trust.
In sharing his story, he aimed to highlight the importance of relationships over sporting achievements. Laegreid’s admission reveals the complex personal struggles athletes may face, even during significant moments of success.
