What happens when a biathlete misses a target?
B · Beginner · Shooting and skiing · 6 of 6Each target left standing after the shots for a bout costs one penalty: a 150 m loop in most races, 75 m in short-loop formats, or added time in the individual. Loops must be skied straight after the bout. Skipping one adds 2 minutes, and leaving the range before firing all shots adds 2 minutes for each round not fired.
How it works
- One miss, one penalty: for each target still standing after all rounds.
- Loop: 150 m in most races; 75 m in the super sprint and single mixed relay.
- Time: 1 minute in the individual, 45 seconds in the short individual.
- When: loops skied at once after the bout.
- Own responsibility: skiers count their own loops; a skier who forgets may go back.
- Missed loop: 2 minutes added for each.
- Shots not fired: 2 minutes for each round not fired if targets are left.
- Too many shots: more than five (eight in relays) brings 2 minutes.
The glossary has the penalty loop, the miss, the penalty minute, the two-minute penalty, the spare round and the competition time.
Tricky cases
A biathlete forgets one penalty loop and realises later. Can they go back?
Yes, if they return without obstructing anyone; otherwise 2 minutes is added.
An official error makes a skier ski an extra loop. Then what?
The jury adjusts the time using the average loop time.
Can loops be skied at the end of the race?
No. They must be skied right after the bout.
Who has priority at the loop entrance?
A skier on or leaving the loop has right of way over one entering.
Why the rule exists
A loop for each miss makes the penalty visible to spectators. The heavier time for skipping a loop removes any reason to try.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | Time instead of a loop | IBU Table 1 |
| Short-loop formats | 75 m loop | IBU 1.4.11 |
| Relays | Loops only after eight shots | IBU 8.2.2 |
From the rule book
International Biathlon Union, Event and Competition Rules (version 2026), Articles 7.1.4, 7.1.5, 8.2.2, 11.3.3 and Table 1. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the IBU Event and Competition Rules, amended by the IBU Congress every two years.