Lisa Hauser remains in the Swiss biathlon team: a brave step!

Lisa Hauser remains in the Swiss biathlon team: a brave step!

The Austrian biathlete Lisa Hauser has decided not to return to training with the Austrian Ski Association (ÖSV) in the future. She announced this on May 21, 2025. Hauser, who finished eleventh overall in the World Cup last winter, feels “very comfortable” in the Swiss team. Their decision is influenced, among other things, by the lack of clear signals from the ÖSV. She admits to feeling like the association didn't make enough of an effort to bring her back. One reason for the move away is the psychological challenges associated with their sport, as shown in an article on mental strength in biathlon.

Hauser has decided to join her coach Sandra Flunger and the mixed Swiss World Cup team. After holding discussions in April, she has been training mostly alone since then. Those around her are understanding of her move and she is only planning a few joint training sessions with other Austrian biathletes. Her confidant remains the experienced trainer Alfred Eder, who continues to offer her support.

Integration into the Swiss team

She integrated well into the Swiss team, even if she had to leave her comfort zone. Hauser wants “quiet preparation without any background noise” and has often trained independently in the past. She has already celebrated successes at the Junior World Championships, including her first victory in the single mixed relay. For the coming months, she doesn't attach too much importance to the performance curve in summer, as winter is crucial.

In her career so far, Hauser has won numerous titles, including the 2021 Mass Start World Championship title. Her mental strength, essential for top athletes in biathlon, is reinforced by her ability to avoid conflict and always stick to her goals. Hauser already trained with the Swiss last year; a concept that was no longer feasible this year due to their decision.

Outlook for the Olympic Games

Hauser is showing restraint regarding the 2026 Winter Olympics in Antholz. She doesn't set the Games higher than the World Championships and thinks realistically about her chances. After a fourth-place finish in Beijing, where she narrowly missed out on a medal, she had health problems last season but is feeling better this season.

Hauser's rifle has been optimized by a German gun manufacturer, underscoring its focus on technical precision. She describes herself as a perfectionist and is willing to have the stubbornness necessary to succeed in a pressured environment. In addition to her involvement in biathlon, Hauser enjoys spending her free time reading and watching the Netflix series “Emily in Paris”. Her sporting life challenges her to reflect on friendships and personal relationships.

The World Cup opener will take place at the end of November in Kontiolahti, Finland, where both Hauser and her teammates will prepare for the challenges ahead. While Hauser focuses on her individuality, she remains an important part of the international biathlon scene.

For further information and insights into mental strength in biathlon, visit Sports psychology MUC referred.