Elīna Ieva Bota, who secured a silver medal in luge at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, returned to Latvia on Tuesday with other members of the luge delegation. The team arrived at Riga Airport after 6 PM, where they were escorted by the State Police to Sigulda railway station. An official welcome for the athletes is scheduled to take place at about 8 PM in Sigulda, where Bota will be specially honored in her hometown.

The Latvian Olympic Committee (LOK) has invited the public to come out along the route to Sigulda to greet the Olympic athletes, encouraging supporters to wave, cheer, or otherwise show their enthusiasm for the return of the team. Bota's achievement marks a significant milestone, as she won Latvia's first medal in the women's singles luge event in the history of independent Latvia, representing a breakthrough in the country's sporting accomplishments.

Bota earned her silver medal just a week prior, making history at the Winter Olympics. This return home is not just a celebration of her victory but also an opportunity for the community to rally around a local hero. The reception aims to honor the dedication of Bota and her team, as well as to inspire future generations of athletes in Latvia, showcasing what can be achieved through hard work and determination in sports.