Five-time luge world champion Julia Taubitz failed to make it onto the podium for the first time in the twelfth and final race of the season.
The Saxon only came in ninth place in Sigulda when local hero Elina Vitola won. She started the second run as the leader.
“All the mistakes didn’t have to happen. That’s why the disappointment prevails,” said the 28-year-old. The Thuringian by choice had already secured the overall World Cup and the sprint ranking ahead of time. “I’m happy that I have the balls. But ending the season like this isn’t quite as nice.”
Anna Berreiter and Merle Fräbel did better. The Bavarian and the Thuringian made it onto the podium in second and third place.
“This is a crowning conclusion to my season,” said Berreiter, who was able to continuously improve after the botched World Championships in Altenberg. In the overall ranking, the Berchtesgaden native came second, 243 points behind Taubitz.
Fräbel ended the luge season in seventh place overall after setting a track record. “Seven is a lucky number. Maybe that’s a good omen for next season,” she said.