Slovak Biathletes Compete at ZOH 2026
The Slovak biathlon team participated in the women’s 10km pursuit event at the ZOH 2026, with Paulína Bátovská Fialková, Mária Remeňová, Anastasia Kuzminová and Ema Kapustová representing the nation. While individual success was limited, the team looks ahead to the relay event.
Bátovská Fialková’s Pursuit
Paulína Bátovská Fialková demonstrated a strong start in the 10km pursuit, achieving the fastest running time in the first lap. However, three shooting errors hindered her chances for a top placement. She ultimately finished seventh, improving her position from 40th to 25th, but did not qualify for the mass start, which is reserved for the top 15 World Cup athletes and an additional 15 based on Olympic points.
“I wanted to move forward, even knowing a miracle wasn’t possible. It wasn’t easy, but not my best either. You push and push, but oxygen is lacking. It’s not the best feeling, but I’m glad it was the seventh-best time. Shooting is probably the maximum I can achieve on this range. I leave those units behind, and it’s too expensive,” Bátovská Fialková stated to STVR after the race.
Team Performance and Upcoming Events
The Slovak quartet of Paulína Bátovská Fialková, Mária Remeňová, Anastasia Kuzminová, and Ema Kapustová competed in the pursuit race. While none achieved a leading position, they continued to compete. Bátovská Fialková’s individual program is now complete, with her next appearance scheduled for the relay on Wednesday, February 18th at 14:45.
“Yesterday, emotions overwhelmed me, something every athlete who gives their all and it doesn’t perform out can understand. Today is a new day, and I must recover as I have countless times before. I must be here for the relay and be a support. It wouldn’t be fair to fall apart and provide up. I will continue to fight,” added Fialková.
Other Slovak Athletes in Action
Rebeka Jančová is scheduled to compete in the giant slalom at 10:00, and Jakub Borguľa will participate in the men’s pursuit at 14:45. Kira Mária Kapustíková will compete in the large hill ski jumping at 18:45, and the hockey tournament continues with a match between Switzerland and the Czech Republic at 12:10.
Slovak Biathletes in Previous Events
Paulína Bátovská Fialková, Anastasia Kuzminová, Mária Remeňová, and Ema Kapustová also competed in the sprint event, but did not achieve significant results.