CALGARY, Canada — Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton and Luge Canada have signed an agreement to pursue a merger that would establish a single national sport organization overseeing bobsleigh, skeleton and luge, marking a significant development in the modernization of Canada’s sport system.
The proposed consolidation, supported by nearly $3 million in federal funding for 2026–27, aims to improve operational efficiency, strengthen athlete development and create a more sustainable framework for Canada’s sliding sports.
Canadian Sliding Sports Organizations Move Toward Unified Structure
The agreement represents the first proposed merger of national sport organizations under the federal government’s Playground to Podium vision, which emphasizes collaboration, sustainability and stronger athlete development pathways.
The initiative also reflects recommendations from the Future of Sport in Canada Commission encouraging national sport organizations to explore consolidation where shared resources could improve performance and financial stability.
“This is about building something stronger together while preserving what makes each sport special,” said Tim Farstad, executive director of Luge Canada. “Luge, bobsleigh and skeleton each have their own culture, history and community. We want to carry those identities forward, learn from what each sport does well, and bring their strengths together to create something even better for athletes, coaches and the broader sliding community.”
Proposed Merger Targets Spring 2027 Launch
The organizations will establish a joint process to address legal arrangements, governance, financial management, branding, high-performance programs and athlete development.
Subject to approval from their respective boards and memberships, the combined organization aims to begin operations in spring 2027.
Athletes, coaches, clubs, employees and other stakeholders will be consulted throughout the transition.
“Canada’s sport system is changing, and we would rather lead that change than wait for it,” said Kien Tran, chief executive officer, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton. “Bringing our organizations together creates efficiencies, gives us greater scale and strengthens our ability to attract investment and partnerships. Ultimately, that means more capacity to invest in our athletes, coaches and programs and build a stronger future for Canadian sliding sports.”
Federal Government Commits Nearly $3 Million for 2026–27
The proposed merger forms part of the federal government’s broader efforts to modernize Canadian sport infrastructure and governance.
In April, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Secretary of State (Sport) Adam van Koeverden announced a $1-billion investment in Canadian sport.
The government has also allocated $112 million in additional sport funding this year, including more than $1.5 million to support the integration of Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton and Luge Canada.
Combined federal funding for the two organizations will reach almost $3 million in 2026–27, supporting organizational restructuring while maintaining existing athlete and coaching programs.
Government Emphasizes Collaboration and Sustainability
“Sport has the power to shape lives and connect people in ways that very few things can. It’s in our DNA as Canadians, and we’re working directly with National Sport Organizations to build on that legacy. Today’s merger between Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton and Luge Canada is another step forward, and it’s only the beginning. By aligning efforts and integrating expertise and resources, we can create more opportunities for athletes to pursue excellence and strengthen Canada’s sport system. We applaud both organizations for leading the way; we’re proud to support this new alignment with an investment that will help deliver more for sport and for athletes. Together, we’re Building Canada Strong through sport,” said The Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport).
Canadian Athletes Welcome Greater Opportunities for Collaboration
Canadian sliding sport athletes have expressed support for the proposed merger, citing opportunities to share coaching expertise, training resources and development strategies.
Canadian skeleton athlete Hallie Clarke highlighted the benefits of collaboration, pointing to the appointment of former Luge Canada head coach Rob Fegg to the skeleton program.
Canadian luge athlete Caitlin Nash emphasized the potential for improved visibility and resources, while bobsleigh athlete Charlotte Ross highlighted the importance of cross-sport development opportunities.
Together, bobsleigh, skeleton and luge have earned Canada 17 Olympic medals, including seven gold, four silver and six bronze.
The proposed merger could establish a new organizational model for Canadian sport, although its implementation remains dependent on governance approvals and the successful integration of three distinct sporting communities.
Discover more from Wire Service Canada
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.