World Cup Relocation: Königssee Artificial Ice Track Will Not Be Completed in Time for 2026

Berchtesgaden (FIL/11 July 2025) The Berchtesgadener Land District Office announced today that the reopening of the Königssee artificial ice track will be delayed due to unexpected damage to the refrigeration system.

As a result, the 7th EBERSPAECHER Luge World Cup of the Olympic season, originally scheduled for 23–25 January 2026, will have to be relocated.

The FIL is currently working intensively to evaluate suitable alternative venues for both the 7th EBERSPAECHER World Cup and the planned Continental Cup, which were originally set to take place in Königssee.

“Our goal is to identify appropriate replacement venues as soon as possible to ensure the smooth continuation of the season,” said FIL Sport Director Matthias Böhmer.

“The delay is very regrettable. All construction work was on schedule, but unforeseeable technical problems have made this step necessary.
Of course, we support the decision. For the FIL, it is important that all construction measures are carried out with the highest quality and responsibility,” said FIL President Einars Fogelis.

“It’s more than just a track – it’s my sporting home, and that of so many children, athletes, and coaches.
This delay hits especially hard for the younger generation, and I know how many tears are being shed and will be shed.
I’m deeply sorry for everyone who was so excited to finally be able to slide here again,” commented three-time Olympic champion Felix Loch.

Background:
Since the severe storm in July 2021, which caused significant damage to the historic artificial ice track, reconstruction efforts have been ongoing. The first construction phase was scheduled to enable initial training sessions starting in November 2025, with full operations to resume in stages through 2026.
The FIL Luge World Championships are set to be held in Berchtesgaden-Königssee for the eighth time in 2028.