The IBU Cup in biathlon has been held since the winter seasons of 1982–83 and 1988–89, for women and men, respectively.
The IBU Cup season lasts from November/December to March, with contests in a different venue almost every week.
All in all, the season comprises seven to nine meetings, with events taking place from Wednesday–Thursday through Sunday.
A Small Crystal Globe trophy is awarded for the first place in the season total for each discipline.
The tables given below provide an overview of the highest-ranking biathletes and nations of each WC season.