France Unveils Biathlon Relay Teams for 2025 World Championships in Lenzerheide
Men’s Relay
The French men’s biathlon team for the 2025 World Championships relay has been announced, with Émilien Claude, Fabien Claude, Éric Perrot, and Quentin Fillon Maillet set to represent their country in Lenzerheide, Switzerland.
The team’s selection marks a change from the previous World Championships, where Émilien Jacquelin was a member of the relay squad. Jacquelin has had a challenging tournament in the Grisons, finishing 19th in the sprint, 15th in the pursuit, and 67th in the individual.
In contrast, Émilien Claude has been in impressive form this season, helping France to remain undefeated in the relay. The 25-year-old, who is Fabien Claude’s younger brother, has already competed in the relay in Ruhpolding, Germany, where he and his teammates claimed victory.
Women’s Relay
The French women’s team, the defending World Champions, will be hoping to secure their first victory of the season in Lenzerheide. Their relay lineup includes Lou Jeanmonnot, Océane Michelon, Justine Braisaz-Bouchet, and Julia Simon.
Jeanmonnot, Michelon, and Simon have been consistent performers for France throughout the season, while Braisaz-Bouchet will be looking to make amends for a disappointing performance in the individual race.
Race Schedule
The men’s relay will begin on Saturday at 3:05 PM, with Émilien Claude taking on the first leg. He will be followed by his brother Fabien, then Éric Perrot, and finally Quentin Fillon Maillet, who will serve as the anchor leg.
The women’s relay will start earlier on Saturday at 12:05 PM. Jeanmonnot will lead off for France, followed by Michelon, Braisaz-Bouchet, and Simon.
Analysis
France enters the relay events as one of the favorites for both the men’s and women’s competitions. The men’s team has been in exceptional form this season, while the women’s team will be eager to regain their winning ways.
Émilien Claude’s inclusion in the men’s team is a sign of France’s depth in the sport. The 25-year-old has proven himself to be a reliable and capable biathlete, and he will be expected to make a significant contribution in Lenzerheide.
The women’s team will need to improve their shooting accuracy if they want to challenge for the gold medal. Simon, in particular, has struggled with her shooting at times this season, but she is capable of producing a strong performance when it matters most.
With a strong team and a track record of success, France will be confident of adding to their medal tally in the relay events at the 2025 World Championships.
