Brookfield’s Marcus Mueller Almost Stuns, Secures Sixth in Olympic Luge
Marcus Mueller and his luge partner Ansel Haugsjaa made a remarkable impression during the Winter Olympics, finishing sixth in the men’s doubles luge event. This competition took place on February 11, at the Cortina Sliding Centre in Cortina, Italy.
Performance Highlights
The American duo showcased their talent by posting the fastest time in their first run, clocking in at 52.482 seconds. However, challenges in their second run affected their overall standing. Their combined time ended at 1:45.293, just over two-tenths of a second behind the gold medal-winning team.
Final Standings
- Gold Medal: Emanuel Rieder and Simon Kainzwaldner (Italy) – 1:45.086
- Silver Medal: Thomas Steu and Wolfgang Kindl (Austria)
- Bronze Medal: Tobias Wendl and Tobias Arlt (Germany)
- Sixth Place: Marcus Mueller and Ansel Haugsjaa – 1:45.293
Background on Athletes
Marcus Mueller, 20, hails from Brookfield and graduated from Brookfield Central High School. His partner, Ansel Haugsjaa, is 21 and from Framingham, Massachusetts. Both athletes were making their Olympic debuts.
Previous Achievements
Prior to the Olympics, Mueller and Haugsjaa had successful careers in luge. They clinched the 2025 U23 World Championship in men’s doubles. Mueller also earned three Junior World Cup gold medals during the 2024-25 season.
Historical Context
Doubles luge has been an Olympic event since 1964. The United States has historically won silver and bronze medals in this discipline.
- 1998: Silver – Chris Thorpe and Gordy Sheer
- 1998: Bronze – Mark Grimmette and Brian Martin
- 2002: Silver – Mark Grimmette and Brian Martin
- 2002: Bronze – Chris Thorpe and Clay Ives
As the Winter Olympics continue, the performance of Marcus Mueller and Ansel Haugsjaa stands as a proud moment for American luge, hinting at a promising future in the sport.
