A restricted number of fans could attend the World Cups in Kontiolahti ©Getty Images

Spectators are expected to be permitted to attend the International Biathlon Union (IBU) World Cup events in Kontiolahti amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Kontiolahti is due to host back-to-back World Cup events, following the decision to switch a competition from Östersund in Sweden to the Finnish resort.

Kontiolahti is scheduled to stage competitions running from November 27 to 29 and November 30 to December 6.

Organisers were able to open ticket sales at the end of October for both events.

This followed a decision by the Regional State Administrative Agency of Eastern Finland to maintain their existing restrictions on public gatherings.

Based on the decision Kontiolahti Sports Club opened ticket sales.

"The decision of the Regional State Administrative Agency concerns the opening of the World Cup on 28 and 29 November," said Jarno Lautamatti from Kontiolahti Sports Club.

"However, we will also open ticket sales for the event in the following week, December 3 to 6.

"If the authorities’ instructions change so that the public is not allowed, the money will be returned to those who have purchased tickets.

"The stands are outside which gives the spectators better chances to spread out.

"Clear access routes and blocks will be reserved for the public, for which only a limited number of people will be allowed.

"The spectators in each block will stay in their own area the whole time, starting at the entrance gate."

Two Biathlon World Cup events are scheduled to take place in Kontiolahti ©Getty Images
Two Biathlon World Cup events are scheduled to take place in Kontiolahti ©Getty Images

Organisers must ensure spectators have possibilities to keep adequate safety distances and can wash their hands at the event, in accordance with regional guidance.

A total of 4,500 spectators could be able to attend the event, with tickets currently on sale for the A and B stands next to the stadium, as well as the track areas.

Fans must arrive in their own cars, with the usual bus transport provided by organisers not being arranged to avoid close contact.

The attendance is likely to be local fans amid international travel restrictions.

It has already been announced that spectators will not be permitted to attend the IBU Biathlon World Cup in Oberhof in Germany.

Currently scheduled from January 4 to 17 2021, this decision was made by the Winter Sports Promotion Association (WSRO) after consultation with local health authorities and officials from the German Free State of Thuringia.