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USA Luge Announces Talented Team for 2026 Olympics

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 12th 2026 at 14:52 GMT by nbcnews.com

A Team of Rising Stars and Seasoned Veterans

The team comprises five singles athletes and three doubles teams, providing a formidable challenge to international competitors. The singles roster includes veteran Alex Limoges, Andrew Jung, and Chris Mazdzer - all familiar faces on the Olympic stage. Notably, Jonny Gustafson, Luke Giannone, and Sean Callahan are poised to make their Olympic debuts, injecting fresh energy and ambition into the U.S. singles lineup. The debutantes represent the future of the sport, demonstrating the strength of the recruitment and training pipelines that USA Luge has cultivated.

In the doubles competition, the team consists of Chris Mazdzer (also a singles competitor and arguably the team's most recognizable name, having secured a silver medal in Pyeongchang 2018) paired with Adrian Lindenmeyer; Jake Coughlin and Adam Eberhard; and Nolan Nice and C.J. Kessler. The pairings themselves represent a careful blend of experience and potential, aiming to maximize the team's overall competitive edge.

"We're thrilled to announce this impressive group of athletes who will represent the United States in Milan Cortina," stated Becky Rose, CEO of USA Luge, in an official press release. "This team reflects the dedication, hard work, and passion of our athletes and coaches, and we're excited to see them compete on the world's biggest stage." Her statement underscores the collective effort that has led to this momentous occasion for U.S. luge.

Growth and Investment Driving Success

The surge in talent and the expanded team size aren't accidents. They are the direct result of increased investment in the sport, encompassing enhanced training facilities, improved coaching, and expanded outreach programs aimed at identifying and nurturing young luge prospects. Years of strategic planning have positioned the U.S. program to capitalize on a growing interest in the sport domestically. Increased media coverage and the visibility of past Olympic successes have also played a significant role in inspiring a new generation of American lugers.

Furthermore, advancements in equipment technology and aerodynamics have allowed U.S. athletes to fine-tune their performance and gain a competitive advantage on the ice. The team's sleds have undergone rigorous testing and modifications to optimize speed and handling, contributing to their improved results in recent international competitions.

Looking Ahead to February 2026

The 2026 Winter Olympics, scheduled to take place from February 6th to 22nd, represent a pivotal moment for USA Luge. With such a large and talented team, the expectations are high. While medals are always the ultimate goal, the opportunity to showcase the growth and dynamism of the U.S. luge program on a global platform is invaluable. The team's participation in the Games will undoubtedly inspire future generations of American athletes to pursue their own dreams of Olympic glory. The focus will be on consistent performance and demonstrating the technical prowess that has defined the program's recent trajectory. The pressure will be on, but with a team brimming with talent and determination, USA Luge is well-positioned to make a significant impact in Milan Cortina 2026.

The team's success extends beyond just individual performance. It highlights the strength of the entire support system behind them, including coaches, trainers, equipment specialists, and the USA Luge organization as a whole. Their collective efforts are what truly sets the stage for a potentially historic showing at the Winter Games.