Ukraine’s Biathlon Federation Sets Sights on 2030 Olympics with Youth Development Push

Comments from the Head of the Biathlon Federation of Ukraine

According to Главком: Ivan Krulko, the head of Ukraine’s Biathlon Federation, has addressed recent shifts in the national team roster, particularly the ongoing generational transition. After lengthy discussions, 34-year-old Dmytro Pidruchnyi has decided to extend his athletic career.

Dmytro Pidruchnyi, now 34, made the choice to keep competing following our extensive talks. He will definitely continue for at least a few more seasons. It’s even possible he’ll stay on until the next Olympics.

Ivan Krulko

Yuliia Dzhyma has also opted to continue competing, despite a disappointing season marred by injury. Krulko emphasized that Dzhyma does not want her career to end on such a low note:

This season was clearly a failure for her. She suffered an injury and never managed to regain her form. But she still feels she has the strength to keep going.

Ivan Krulko

Young Athletes and Federation Goals

Among the up-and-coming athletes, Oleksandra and Anastasiia Merkushyna will train within a team structure where their father serves as their coach. Oleksandra Merkushyna finished last season with strong performances at the Junior World Championships, which marked her final appearance at that level. Krulko noted that 'she had a very powerful finish to last season.' Oleksandra also placed in the top 15 at World Cup stages.

A key objective for the Federation is to integrate young athletes into the pipeline for the 2030 Olympics. Krulko stressed that 'since we still have four years until the next Olympics, we need to bring in as many young athletes as possible.' He also pointed out that 'competition in the women’s team will be extremely intense, especially over the next two years.'

Krulko believes that 'everyone has their place' in the team, highlighting the natural process of change. 'If results are equal, we will still give chances to the younger athletes, but otherwise, the sporting principle must decide everything,' he added. These changes reflect the Federation’s strategic approach to building a competitive team for the future.

The ongoing adjustments to Ukraine’s biathlon team rosters signal an active renewal process, which is critical for preparing for upcoming international competitions, particularly the 2030 Olympics. Supporting experienced athletes like Pidruchnyi and Dzhyma while bringing in young talents such as the Merkushyna sisters creates a balance of experience and fresh energy-one that could significantly boost the team’s competitiveness on the global stage.

As the Biathlon Federation of Ukraine focuses on nurturing young talent for the upcoming Olympics, it's important to note the recent decision to permanently exclude foreign athletes and coaches. This strategic move underscores the Federation's commitment to developing homegrown talent, ensuring a strong national team while fostering a competitive environment for emerging athletes.