The FIL Family Mourns the Loss of Valdis Kuzis

Berchtesgaden (FIL/28 Apr 2026) It is with deep sadness that the international luge community bids farewell to Valdis Kuzis, who passed away last Friday after a long illness.

With the passing of Valdis Kuzis, the sport of luge loses a defining figure who played a decisive role in shaping the sport over decades as an athlete, technician, and official. The Latvian was part of a generation of pioneers who left their mark on the sport of luge internationally. At the 1976 Winter Olympics, he achieved a remarkable ninth-place finish in the doubles event alongside Rolands Upatnieks.

His influence, however, extended far beyond his active career. As a mechanic and sled builder, Kuzis enjoyed the highest international recognition. He served as chief mechanic at five Winter Olympics—1980, 1984, 1988, 1992, and 1994—and made a significant contribution to the technical advancement of the sport. Together with Edvins Guršpons, he founded the company “Fiberglass,” which supported and promoted numerous athletes, particularly in the youth sector.

Valdis Kuzis also remained closely connected to luge as an official. For the FIL, he served, among other roles, as a technical delegate at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin and was actively involved for many years as a member of the Technical Commission. Additionally, as the long-time race director of the World Cup in Sigulda, he shaped one of the world’s most historic luge tracks.

In 2018, Valdis Kuzis was honored by Latvian President Raimonds Vējonis for his extraordinary life’s work—a well-deserved recognition for a life dedicated to the service of sport.

With the passing of Valdis Kuzis, the FIL family loses not only a highly esteemed expert but also a passionate companion whose dedication and expertise have shaped generations of athletes.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.

The funeral service will take place on May 5 at 3:00 p.m. at the Lielais Crematorium Cemetery.

Rest in peace, Valdis.

Photo: LKFS