Latvian luge athlete Bota was warmly welcomed by fans and officials in Sigulda upon her return from the Olympics where she achieved a remarkable second place finish. After landing at Riga Airport, she traveled in a decorated car escorted by the State Police to a special event at the Sigulda railway station, where she was celebrated in her hometown. Bota expressed her happiness about returning home and acknowledged the intense emotions she felt about her Olympic accomplishment.

During the event, Bota reflected on her Olympic journey, recognizing the weight of the silver medal as a testament to the hard work and effort it took to reach this level of success. She mentioned that it was difficult to fully internalize the achievement immediately after the competitions, particularly after the team relay, but she is now starting to understand the significance of her podium finish. Bota's heartfelt comments highlighted her connection to her family, friends, and supporters, emphasizing the importance of celebrating with loved ones after such a significant milestone.

The welcome event attracted a sizable crowd of fans at the Riga Airport, showcasing the support for Olympic athletes back home. This moment not only signifies Bota's personal achievement but also reflects the pride of Latvia in its athletes participating on the world stage. The community's engagement in celebrating such achievements underscores the role sports play in fostering national pride and unity among Latvians, especially following the challenges and sacrifices faced in competitive sports.