Istanbul (pps) Walter Plaikner of Italy received the Medal of Honor in gold of the International Luge Federation (FIL). In recognition of his services as long-time Chairman of the Technical Commission, Plaikner was awarded the medal at the 61st FIL Congress in Istanbul (Turkey). The 61-year-old was instrumental in the development of the UVEX safety helmets as well as the currently used training and race footwear by adidas.

Marek Skowronski, long-time head coach in Poland, received the Medal of Honor in silver. In his absence Jan Blonski, for many years President of the Polish national federation and now its Vice President, as well as Anton Gebala were equally awarded the Medal of Honor in silver.