Germany's Max Langenhan Dominates Opening Runs of Olympic Men's Singles Luge in Cortina

Langenhan Sets Pace with Double Track Records

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy – Germany's Max Langenhan has established a significant lead in the men's singles luge competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics, held at the Cortina Sliding Centre. On February 7, 2026, the 26-year-old German athlete delivered a dominant performance, setting two new track records during the first two runs of the event.

Langenhan clocked an impressive 52.924 seconds in his initial run, followed by an even faster 52.902 seconds in his second descent. His combined time of 1:45.826 places him firmly atop the leaderboard heading into the final two runs. Despite revealing he had been battling a 'stiff neck' that morning, Langenhan credited his physiotherapists and doctors for enabling his strong start.

Close Competition for Podium Spots

While Langenhan holds a clear advantage, the battle for the remaining podium positions remains tight. Austria's Jonas Mueller currently sits in second place with a total time of 1:45.988. Home favorite Dominik Fischnaller of Italy, a reigning Olympic bronze medalist, is in third, recording a combined time of 1:46.124. Latvia's Kristers Aparjods is in fourth, 0.508 seconds off Langenhan's pace.

Notably, two-time Olympic men's singles champion Felix Loch, also from Germany, finished the first day in eighth place.

The Cortina Sliding Centre: A Historic Venue

The luge events are unfolding at the newly reconstructed Cortina Sliding Centre, a state-of-the-art facility built on the site of the historic Eugenio Monti Olympic Track. This venue previously hosted the sliding sports during the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d'Ampezzo. The modern track is designed to meet contemporary safety and design standards set by international federations.

Outlook for the Final Runs

The men's singles luge competition is a four-run event, with the aggregate time determining the medal winners. The crucial third and fourth runs are scheduled to take place on February 8, 2026, where Langenhan will aim to maintain his lead and secure Germany's first luge gold of these Games. The competition promises an exciting conclusion as athletes vie for Olympic glory on the challenging Cortina track.