After the favorable decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the holding of the World Cup in Sigulda this season remains unclear for Russian lugers, reports the Latvian Luge Federation (LKSF).
Last week, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) made a decision regarding the appeal of the Russian Luge Federation (RLF) and six of its athletes against the International Luge Federation (FIL) related to the participation of Russian athletes in the qualification process for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
According to the CAS decision, RLF representatives are still not allowed to participate in FIL competitions; however, individual Russian athletes may be permitted to start as neutral athletes if they meet the established criteria. Thus, the appeal was partially upheld, but the request of the six athletes for immediate restoration of their participation in competitions was rejected.
In its statement, the Latvian Luge Federation (LKSF) notes that it respects the CAS decision but categorically opposes the participation of Russian athletes of any status in World Cup competitions or the Olympic Games while the unjust and brutal war in Ukraine continues. LKSF emphasizes that in such conditions, sports cannot exist outside of moral and ethical responsibility, and the safety of Latvian athletes and the integrity of competitions remain an absolute priority. The federation reminds that at the FIL congress, the overwhelming majority voted against the participation of Russian athletes in events organized by FIL.
LKSF President Klavs Vasks emphasizes that any participation of representatives from Russia in international sports events, regardless of CAS decisions or other institutions, contradicts Olympic values, human rights, and principles of fairness.
"Sports should remain a symbol of peace, solidarity, and respect, not a tool for enhancing the image of an aggressor. While the war continues, Russian athletes should have no place on the international stage, even under the cover of a neutral flag," Vasks emphasizes.
The LKSF president promises that the federation will do everything possible for the best Latvian lugers to safely participate in international competitions and qualify for the 2026 Olympic Games.
"However, such a CAS decision may significantly affect the planned World Cup stage in Sigulda, as the current legislation of Latvia does not allow the participation of athletes from Russia in competitions in our country, regardless of their status. Such athletes will not be allowed to participate in competitions organized by LKSF," Vasks adds.
Considering the potential impact of this decision on the holding of international competitions and the training process of Latvian athletes, LKSF will begin consultations with the Ministry of Education and Science and the Latvian Olympic Committee in the coming days to coordinate a common position and determine further actions. After the consultations, the federation will provide the public with a complete explanation of the situation and the next steps.
