​​Fourth victory in series for Olympic Champion Felix

Oberhof (RWH)  Olympic luge champion Felix Loch has celebrated his fourth victory in succession. At the Viessmann World Cup in Oberhof (GER), a final rehearsal for the 46th International Luge Federation (FIL) World Championships on the ice track in Königssee in 14 days (29–31 January 2016), the four-time World Champion from Germany notched up his 28th victory in the singles. This gives the 26-year-old not only the yellow bib worn by the leader in the overall standings, but also makes him top favourite for the championship title on his home track.

At his sixth victory in series in Oberhof, Loch set a new track record of 43.029 seconds in his first run down the track on which he won his first World Championship title in 2008. Second and third place in Oberhof went to fellow Germans Andi Langenhan and Ralf Palik.

Loch’s victory takes the defending titleholder into the lead in the overall standings of the Viessmann World Cup for the first time this season at 590 points. World Championship bronze medallist Wolfgang Kindl of Austria, who came fifth in Oberhof, dropped back to second with 566 points. US luger Chris Mazdzer is overall third with 475 points.

Next weekend, the Viessmann World Cup will be taking a break before the 46th FIL World Championships in Königssee, the highlight of the season. The 7th Viessmann World Cup will be held on the Olympic track in Sochi, Russia, on 6–7 February 2016.

Quotes

Felix Loch (GER / 2010 and 2014 Olympic Champion and four-time World Champion)

“This was a perfect day with a track record and leadership in the overall World Cup standings. I’m really happy at winning six races in succession. Lots of people are saying I’m top favourite for the World Championships, and not only since this victory.”

Andi Langenhan (GER / silver in 2013 World Championships, bronze in 2011 and 2008 World Championships)

“I’m so happy. I’ve never been as fast as this on the Oberhof track. It was really important for my confidence in 14 days at the World Championships.”

Ralf Palik (GER)

“I’m really happy. This is my first podium this winter.”