Winter Olympian breaks down in tears as he confesses to cheating on partner after winning bronze medal

Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Laegried tearfully admitted to cheating on the ‘love of his life’ after claiming bronze at the Winter Olympics.

The seven-time world champion finished third in the men’s 20km individual event in Rasen-Antholtz on Tuesday.

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However, it was his girlfriend of six months who became the subject of his post-race interview.

Holm Laegried broke down in tears as he confessed to being unfaithful to his partner whilst speaking to Norwegian outlet NRK.

Emotional interview

Making his admission, he explained: “There’s someone I wanted to share this with who might not be watching today.

“Six months ago, I met the love of my life and the most beautiful and kindest person in the world.

“And three months ago I made my biggest mistake and cheated on her.”

He continued: “I had a gold medal in my life… I only have eyes for her.

“I don’t know what I want to achieve by saying this, but sports have been in a different line in recent days. So I wish I could share it with her.”

As for why he was confessing, Holm Laegried added: “You have to admit when you do something you can’t stand for, and hurt someone you love so much.”

The 28-year-old refused to reveal his girlfriend’s identity when asked, before adding that he had made the decision to go public the night before the race.

He told the broadcaster: “She’s probably still processing last week’s message, but I hope there’s light at the end of the tunnel for both of us and that she can still love me.”

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Holm Laegried concluded: “Last night I had a kind of revelation that I should drop this bomb… Then we’ll see what happens. I have nothing to lose.”

His team-mate Johannes Dale-Skjevdal revealed he had been told about Holm Laegried’s infidelity ahead of his confession.

Dale-Skjevdal explained: “We have known that, yes. I don’t have many comments about it now.

“It’s good that he is open about it, and if he wants to talk about things, that’s fine.”

The 2024/25 World Cup champion had been competing at his second Winter Olympics.

He previously won gold in the 4 x 7.5km relay in Beijing four years ago.

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A disappointing World Cup season caused Holm Laegried to be excluded from Norway’s mixed relay team at this month’s Games.

However, he was able to find himself on the podium in the 20km individual biathlon.

Compatriot Johan-Olav Botn took gold ahead of France’s Eric Perrot.

Paired with Holm Laegried’s bronze, Norway’s medal haul now stands at eight across the first four days of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.