Overview
- Italian police seized the altitude-simulation mask found with Bakken and are examining possible malfunction or improper settings, with a VG report of a 7,000‑metre setting not confirmed.
- A preliminary autopsy report is expected early next week, and the family’s law firm says there is currently no indication of a criminal act.
- The Norwegian federation said Bakken was discovered on December 23 in his Lavazè hotel room during a training camp while wearing the device.
- Olympiatoppen advised Norwegian athletes to suspend use of simulated-altitude equipment until the investigation provides clarity.
- Bakken previously suffered myocarditis after his third COVID vaccination and had returned to international competition this season.