What are the start rules in luge?
B · Beginner · The race · 3 of 3Once the light turns green and the start leader gives the Track is Clear, a singles athlete has 20 seconds to start and a doubles pair 35. The start is valid once the athlete leaves the handles with a push and the sled is moving. A flying start is not allowed, and no one may help the athlete accelerate.
How it works
- Call to start: go to the start area within 2 minutes of being called.
- Green light: the track is closed while the light is red.
- Time to start: 20 seconds in singles, 35 in doubles, after the Track is Clear.
- Valid start: leave the handles with a push and set the sled moving.
- No flying start: the run begins from the handles.
- No help: no one may help the athlete accelerate.
- Coaches: not next to the athlete at the start.
- Technical break: one minute, for a broken shoe zip, visor, helmet, neck strap or doubles strap.
The glossary has the start, the Track is Clear, the start handles, the spikes, the intermediate time and the false start.
Tricky cases
What are the spiked gloves for?
To paddle on the ice after the pull. The spikes may be no longer than 5 mm.
A visor strap snaps at the start. What happens?
The athlete may ask the start leader, under the jury's eye, for a one-minute technical break.
The race stops for a while. Does the next athlete have to go at once?
No. They get two minutes to prepare before the Track is Clear, unless they signal ready sooner.
Can a coach push the sled?
No. Help in accelerating is forbidden.
Why the rule exists
A fixed window keeps the race moving and stops athletes waiting for better conditions. Starting from the handles with no help makes the start the athlete's own work.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Singles | 20 seconds | IRO §10 1.3 |
| Doubles | 35 seconds | IRO §10 1.3 |
| Sprint | Flying start, timed from 100 to 150 m | IRO §3 6.6.3 |
From the rule book
FIL, International Luge Regulations (IRO), artificial track (2026 edition), §5 point 2.1 and §10 points 1.2, 1.3 and 1.5. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the FIL International Luge Regulations, issued each season.