A major surprise marked the conclusion of the FIL Natural Track Luge World Cup in Umhausen (AUT) on Sunday afternoon. Stefan Federer (SUI) triumphed in the Eliminator event, securing not only his first-ever podium finish at the age of 35 but also Switzerland’s first-ever World Cup victory in the discipline.

First victory for Stefan Federer (SUI)

Umhausen (FIL/09.02.2025) – The men’s singles Eliminator race, conducted in a knockout format, produced a brand-new winner. Stefan Federer (SUI) had a bye in the round of 16, defeated his teammate Jerome Almer (SUI) in the quarter-finals, and then overcame Fabian Brunner (ITA) in the semi-finals to book his place in the final. There, Federer delivered an outstanding time of 1:13.29 minutes on the 955-metre-long "Grantau" track – the fastest of the day. World Champion Michael Scheikl (AUT) finished second, 0.36 seconds behind, while Fabian Achenrainer (AUT) secured third place, 0.41 seconds adrift, ahead of Florian Clara (ITA).

(from left) Michael Scheikl (AUT), Stefan Federer (SUI) and Fabian Achenrainer (AUT)

“It’s unbelievable. I felt good all weekend, and the equipment was perfect. A big thank you to my teammate (Jerome Almer, editor’s note), who supported me before the semi-finals and final,” said Federer, who was celebrated at the finish line by his fellow competitors. Originally from South Tyrol, Stefan Federer (Völs am Schlern) competed for Italy until the 2020/2021 season. Since winter 2022/2023, he is racing for Switzerland.

Thrilling showdown in the overall World Cup standings

The overall World Cup title will be decided in a dramatic showdown at the final event in Deutschnofen/Nova Ponente (ITA). Michael Scheikl currently leads with 495 points, closely followed by Florian Clara (490). Meanwhile, Alex Oberhofer (ITA/362) and Stefan Federer (358) will battle for the final podium spot.

Ninth overall World Cup title for Evelin Lanthaler

In the women’s Eliminator event, Evelin Lanthaler (ITA) sealed her ninth overall World Cup victory by claiming her 57th World Cup win. In the final, the World Champion clocked a time of 1:14.97 minutes, finishing ahead of her teammate Daniela Mittermair (ITA) by 0.48 seconds. Lisa Walch (GER) secured third place (+0.59) – her first podium of the season – ahead of Tina Unterberger (AUT). “It was a long race day, and I knew the final would be a tight contest. Winning my ninth overall World Cup title with a victory makes it even more special,” said the record-breaking World Cup champion.

(from left) Daniela Mittermair (ITA), Evelin Lanthaler (ITA) and Lisa Walch (GER)

The final event of the 2024/2025 FIL Natural Track Luge World Cup will take place on 22 and 23 February in Deutschnofen/Nova Ponente (ITA).

Top 4 Women’s Singles, Eliminator
1.    Evelin Lanthaler (ITA) – 1:14.97 minutes
2.    Daniela Mittermair (ITA) – +0.48 seconds
3.    Lisa Walch (GER) – +0.59
4.    Tina Unterberger (AUT) – +0.81

Top 4 Men’s Singles, Eliminator
1.    Stefan Federer (SUI) – 1:13.29 minutes
2.    Michael Scheikl (AUT) – +0.36 seconds
3.    Fabian Achenrainer (AUT) – +0.41
4.    Florian Clara (ITA) – +0.85