FIL and ISSU meet for constructive talks in Innsbruck – First presidential talks in 13 years

Innsbruck (FIL/07 Nov 2025) On November 6, 2025, an important meeting took place in Innsbruck between the International Luge Federation (FIL) and the International Sled Sports Union (ISSU). It was the first meeting at the presidential level in 13 years and marks an important step toward a shared future for the sport of luge.

Individual ISSU representatives have been working for some time in the strategy teams of the FIL's Alpine Luge Future Workshop. The meeting in Innsbruck served to further deepen this cooperation and structure it organizationally.

The exchange focused on fundamental organizational issues concerning future cooperation between the two associations. In addition, discussions were held on how ISSU's involvement in the Future Workshop's strategy teams could be expanded and supplemented with possible team leadership roles. Other topics of discussion included the integration of the Future Workshop in the form of possible side events at ISSU competitions, as well as improved communication, information, and exchange opportunities for ISSU athletes, coaches, and officials involved in the Future Workshop project.

The discussion was characterized by open, constructive dialogue. Past developments were reflected upon, while the clear focus was on a joint, future-oriented shaping of the sport. Both organizations emphasized their shared goal of further strengthening the sport of luge—in all its disciplines—and making it even more visible and attractive internationally.

“We are looking ahead. Only together can we further develop the sport of luge and position it as the No. 1 winter sport. This meeting was an important step in that direction,” said FIL President Einars Fogelis.

The meeting underscores the willingness of both federations to continue the exchange and further develop synergies between classic luge and alpine luge.

Participants from left to right: Günther Beck (ISSU & FIL, LIE), Christoph Schweiger (Executive Director FIL, AUT), Einars Fogelis (President FIL, LAT), Dietmar Herbst (President ISSU, ITA), Andreas Castiglioni (Director of Sport & Technology Alpine Luge FIL, ITA), Michael Wohlgenannt (Vice President ISSU, AUT) and Gerhard Mühlbacher (Project Manager Future Workshop Alpine Luge FIL, AUT)