Riccarda Ruetz

She has known the mountains around Kühtai since childhood and is now one of the world’s most successful natural track lugers. Riccarda Ruetz from Sellrain embodies speed, precision, and a deep connection to her homeland.

Born on April 19, 2004, Riccarda began luge in 2013. What started as a passion at a young age quickly developed into an impressive athletic career. Her path took her through the junior ranks all the way to the top of international alpine luge.

A Home Race for the History Books

Riccarda celebrated one of her most emotional victories right where she calls home: at the 2025 World Championships in Kühtai.

In front of a home crowd, she raced to the silver medal in the women’s singles event, thereby claiming the title of vice world champion. A special moment—for Riccarda, for the RC Kühtai-Sellraintal, and for the entire region.

At the top of the World Cup

The 2025–26 season ultimately became the most successful of her career to date. With strong and consistent performances, as well as several World Cup victories, Riccarda rose to the top of the international competition. Even before the final race, it was clear: Riccarda Ruetz would win the 2025–26 overall World Cup. In doing so, she brought the women’s overall World Cup back to Austria for the first time in more than a quarter-century.

Despite her international successes, Riccarda remains deeply connected to her hometown. She competes for the RC Kühtai-Sellraintal and trains there, where alpine conditions are part of everyday life.

Kühtai and the Sellraintal Valley are thus not only her home, but also an important part of her athletic history.

And this story is far from over.