Bob Track Innsbruck Struggles for World Cup After Renovation - Innsbruck’s Bobsleigh Track Faces Safety Crisis Ahead of World Cup Events
Safety concerns have emerged at the Innsbruck-Igls bobsleigh track, with Curves 13 and 14 deemed too risky for competition. The lower section, recently rebuilt, faces issues with ice profiling, particularly at Curve 14's entry. The upcoming Luge World Cup in December remains scheduled, but the Bobsleigh World Cup in late November is at risk due to the track's unofficial approval status.
The Land Tirol and City of Innsbruck authorities are responsible for the track's structural adjustments, working with the Bob Track Commission to ensure safety and quality standards. Despite recent renovations that included moderating the final curve, extending the run-out zone, and adding a new women’s start ramp and finish house, the track's conditions are still not safe for controlled runs. A wooden guide rail has been temporarily installed in Curve 14 to minimize risk.
The primary issue lies in the ice profiling of the newly constructed lower section. The entry into Curve 14 is too wide, posing an unacceptably high crash risk. This issue has led to the track failing to receive official approval, putting the scheduled Bobsleigh World Cup event in late November in jeopardy. Meanwhile, the Luge World Cup in December is still set to proceed as planned.
The Innsbruck-Igls bobsleigh track's safety concerns must be addressed promptly to secure the approval needed for the Bobsleigh World Cup in late November. The Luge World Cup in December remains unaffected. The Land Tirol, City of Innsbruck, and Bob Track Commission are working together to resolve the issues and ensure the track meets safety and quality standards.
