The top weekend for the luge community kicked off Thursday in Whistler, Canada, where the world championships are being held on a track that previously hosted the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.
This event is significant not only for the immediate contests but also as a stepping stone toward future Olympic aspirations.
For the American team, the weekend is crucial as they aim to secure medals, with promising chances across three different events. However, there’s also a palpable shift in focus toward February 2026, when the next Olympic sliding competitions are scheduled. These will take place either in Italy—if a new track is completed—or at USA Luge’s very own venue in Lake Placid, New York.
“The Olympics remains my primary goal,” expressed Summer Britcher, a three-time Olympic competitor in women’s singles luge. “I’ve been focused on it for quite some time. I don’t see it as a distraction from races like the world championships or World Cups; rather, it complements those events. Each World Cup and championship serves as a chance to gauge our progress, fine-tune our equipment, and enhance our racing skills. All these efforts contribute to our Olympic preparation.”
As usual, Germany is dominating, leading the medal count with 44 World Cup medals this season—more than any other country. Austria follows closely with six fewer medals, showcasing a strong performance that aligns with the Olympic cycle. Latvia has achieved 11 medals, while the United States sits in fourth with nine.
Much of the American success can be attributed to the dynamic women’s doubles team of Chevonne Forgan and Sophia Kirkby, who have collectively secured four medals in doubles events alongside additional podium finishes in relays. Their current trajectory suggests they are likely to make their Olympic debuts come winter.
In a lineup that includes established Olympic participants, such as Britcher and Emily Sweeney—who have consistently performed at a high level in women’s singles, and Tucker West, known for his rapid starts—the youthful duo of Forgan and Kirkby is making notable strides. Their vibrant spirits are palpable on race days, amplified by their glittery face paint and palpable excitement during medal ceremonies.
“It’s essential for us to remember to enjoy the process,” Forgan commented. “This season has been our most successful, performance-wise. We often have to remind ourselves to have fun, especially during intense moments of competition. Our love for what we do helps us navigate the challenges of frequent travel and intense rivalries.”
The world championship’s mixed doubles and singles races took place Thursday, followed by competitions in men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and women’s singles scheduled for Friday. The championship concludes on Saturday with men’s singles and the team relay event.
The relay has become a highlight for the U.S. team, as it features athletes from men’s singles, women’s singles, women’s doubles, and men’s doubles competing together in a collaborative event.
“From the very beginning, the essence of Team USA is ingrained in us,” Sweeney noted. “The way we come together during the relays is a truly special experience.”
