On the eve of today's sprint race, which will open the male part of the World Cup Final 2009/10, the leaders of the French team brothers Fourcade answered some questions.

     - The season 2009/10 is coming to an end. Can you already evaluate your achievements?

     М.F.: - This season is the best in my career. I was 24th lass season overall. Now I’m the 5th and going to rise higher. It is the result of a hard work.

     S.F.: - The season started rather well and till the Olympic Games went on one level. But I felt pressure of this great event on myself and it was good. It was a difficult period for me and even on the stage in Kontiolahti it affected me not in the best way. Now I’m in a good shape again and ready for the race.

     - What are your plans to the final stage of World Cup?

     М.F.: - I hope that I will be in a good shape this week, however it's better to talk about the results after the races. Here is always a strong wind blows but I feel great and I’m ready to fight for the win. For this good speed, perfect shooting and physical shape are necessary.

     S.F.: - I like this course and I'm in a good shape. I can’t say that going to do something incredible, but I’ll try to be as closer to the podium as possible.

     - Very strong biathletes are presented in the French team in mass relay. What do you think about your chances in this race?

     М.F.: - I think that the champions of last year (France) could stay the same. Of course we should do our best and to fight with Russian, Norwegian, German and Swedish teams, but I think that we have chances for the win.

     - The fact that you are brothers does not disturb you? Don’t you compete with each other?

     М.F.: - I do not regard it as a rivalry and during the race don't think about the fight with Simon. I have my own aims, he-his, that’s why it’s only help us that we are together.

     S.F.: - No, it's not hard, it is a big advantage on the contrary. Martin has absolutely different abilities so we can teach each other.

     - What are your impressions on Khanty-Mansyisk? And your comments about the reconstructed stadium.

     М.F.: - Khanty-Mansyisk is a very beautiful place. Even four years ago when I was here for the first time I liked it.

     S.F.: - The stadium is great and big just like a football field. Here are a lot of space for the spectators. So, it is a perfect place for holding World Championship next year!

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