The deal, which covers the IBU's two flagship competitions, will begin from the upcoming 2016-17 season.

Included as part of the arrangement is extensive advertising presence for Hörmann at biathlon arenas, including in the stadium, along the track and at shooting ranges.

Athletes will also wear starting bibs featuring the company's logo, while the firm will benefit from "further brand exposure" across all official print materials and videos, and on the IBU website.

The sponsorship package, brokered by Infront Sports and Media, is completed by a hospitality contingent and other advertising and promotional rights.

Christoph Hörmann, a partner at the company, said: "By entering into a sponsorship agreement with the IBU, we are able to reach approximately 500 million viewers each year across Europe. 

"The sport enjoys great popularity in significant markets for us including Germany, Russia and Scandinavia, amongst others. 

"Football matches are usually not staged during the winter months and therefore an advertising presence at the IBU World Cup biathlon races - which take place at this appealing time of year - is the perfect complement to our ongoing commitment to international football."

The IBU World Cup - the organisation's multi-race season - is due to begin its new campaign in Östersund in Sweden on November 27.

Hochfilzen in Austria will host the next edition of the World Championships next year, between February 9 and 19.