Berchtesgaden (pps) There will be fundamental innovations when the Viessmann World Luge Cup will start into the new season with the first event at Sigulda/Latvia (November 13-15, 2003). With elementary changes the events shall be rendered more attractive and interesting for the luge enthusiasts on site as well as the TV spectators. For the time being a trial phase until the end of 2003 is planned. Subsequently, the Executive of the International Luge Federation (FIL) led by President Josef Fendt will then decide on a possible continuation.

Further changes in the 2003/2004 season: a heat differentiation according to performances, a qualification for men, ladies and doubles, the abolition of preparation breaks during the races as well as the introduction of a team event.
"With all these measures we hope to tighten the program and to increase the suspense so that the Viessmann World Luge Cup will be more attractive for spectators and the media", explained FIL President Fendt.
The 1976 Olympic runner-up and two-time World Champion had been instrumental in promoting the changes. In spring 2003 he called together officials, coaches, athletes and media representatives to participate in a "workshop". Together with the FIL Executive he put into practise the best proposals which were compiled during the workshop. Josef Fendt: "We need to introduce innovations and changes in order to be prepared for future challenges."