On the 2021–2022 World Cup circuit, four relays were run before the Olympics across different stops: three were won by Norway, and one by Russia.

An exciting competition, the pre-race favorite team from Norway had a disastrous first leg from Sturla Holm Lægreid, who missed four times while shooting in the standing position, forcing a penalty lap and opening the door for the ROC, France, and Belarus squads to stake an early lead.

A tight battle emerged between Émilien Jacquelin of France and Roman Rees of Germany behind Loginov while Belarus, Italy, Canada, and Sweden fell further back and away from medal contention.

Behind Tsetkov, Johannes Thingnes Bø led a strong comeback for the Norwegians, as the multi-gold medalist's 19:10.9 proved to be the fastest leg of the day, bringing the favorites Norway back into medal contention.

Maillet finished strong to claim silver for France, while a heartbroken Latypov managed to hold off Germany for bronze.