Latvian bobsled team to scout new talent in several cities

The Latvian bobsled team is launching its 2026 Selection Tour, inviting young men and women aged 14 and older to take part in tryouts held across several Latvian cities this autumn. This marks the second year the federation has organized such regional selection events, following the tradition started last year.

Schedule and locations

The tour begins on August 22 in Riga at the BTA Daugava Athletics Arena. Trials continue at the Jelgava Sports Hall Stadium on August 24, the KCV Stadium in Kuldīga on August 25, Limbaži Stadium on August 26, and the athletics sector of the Madona City Sports Centre on August 27. The tour concludes on September 9 at Jēkabpils Stadium.

Coaching staff and recent results

A year ago, Emīls Cipulis, who had recently ended his own career as a bobsled pilot, became head coach of the Latvian bobsled national team. Former bobsled pilot Edgars Maskalāns also joined the coaching staff, responsible for technique and track guidance, while former German bobsledder Ēriks Franke was appointed physical conditioning coach.

At this year's Winter Olympics, Latvia was represented by a single crew in both bobsled disciplines. Jēkabs Kalenda, together with brakeman Matīss Miknis, finished eighth in the two-man event, while the four-man crew of Kalenda, Miknis, Lauris Kaufmanis and Mairis Kļava placed tenth.

Looking ahead

As the new Olympic cycle begins, the Latvian bobsled team's focus will be on recruiting young athletes and involving them in international competition. Next season, Latvian bobsledders plan to compete in European Cup races, a World Cup stage in Sigulda, as well as the world championship and world junior championship.