Natalie Geisenberger, Johannes Ludwig and Eggert/Benecken retain the lead

Oberhof (RWH) Natalie Geisenberger, Johannes Ludwig and Toni Eggert/Sascha Benecken are all top of the overall standings ahead of the penultimate stop of the Viessmann Luge World Cup in the post-Olympic winter. There are three events remaining in the men’s, women’s and doubles luge ahead of the season finale: Oberhof (GER) will host the Olympic program this coming weekend. Two weeks later on February 23-24, Sochi (RUS) will be the venue for the men’s, women’s and doubles competitions along with the third BMW Sprint World Cup.

The team relay, which was cancelled due to adverse weather conditions in Altenberg, may be rescheduled in the 2014 Olympic city. The titles of the 50th European Championships of the International Luge Federation (FIL) will also be awarded in Oberhof.

Natalie Geisenberger leads the overall standings with 782 points ahead of her teammate Julia Taubitz (651), who ended up 24th in Altenberg and the USA’s Summer Britcher (506), who finished in 20th place. In the men’s competition Johannes Ludwig is wearing the leader’s yellow jersey, with Felix Loch lying in wait just six points behind. “It’s getting exciting,” said Loch, who hopes to continue his winning streak in Thuringia. The 29-year-old has won eight Viessmann World Cups, one BMW Sprint World Cup and his first world title in 2008 in Oberhof.

In doubles, the local heroes Toni Eggert/Sascha Benecken have a healthy lead of 158 points over Thomas Steu/Lorenz Koller (AUT).