Georg Hackl, the legendary German luger and three-time Olympic champion, announced that he will not extend his contract with the Austrian luge team after the 2026 Olympics in Milan and Cortina. Hackl, who is turning 60 next year, expressed his desire for more private life and rest after four decades of constant travel. Despite stepping back from coaching internationally, Hackl intends to remain involved in luge, possibly in a different capacity such as with the International Luge Federation or back in Germany. His departure from the German team in 2022 had caused controversy, as he moved to coach Austria’s rival team. German athletes like Felix Loch acknowledged Hackl’s expertise and hope for his return. The German Bobsleigh, Luge, and Skeleton Federation is optimistic about a possible Hackl comeback, especially to support youth development at the Königssee track reopening in 2026. Hackl’s return would mark a significant moment closing a notable chapter in German luge history.

Source: https://www.zdfheute.de/sport/wintersport/rodeln-weltcup-trainer-georg-hackl-zukunft-100.html