Oskars Kibermanis claimed his first-ever IBSF World Cup win today after leading a Latvian one-two in the four-man bobsleigh competition in St Moritz ©IBSF/Göran Strand

Oskars Kibermanis claimed his first-ever International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) World Cup win today after leading a Latvian one-two in the four-man bobsleigh competition in Swiss village St Moritz.

The 23-year-old’s second run saw him set a season’s best start time of 4.96sec and track record of 1:04.05, ensuring victory with his brake team of Janis Jansons, Matiss Miknis and Raivis Zirups in 2:08.60.

Compatriot Oskars Melbardis, and his brake team of Daumants Dreiskans, Arvis Vilkaste and Janis Strenga, finished 0.13 seconds behind in the runners-up spot.

It ensured the world champion achieved his first podium of the season.

Germany’s Francesco Friedrich, and his team of Candy Bauer, Martin Grothkopp and Thorsten Margis, ended up 0.30 seconds off the pace in third.

Oskars Kibermanis set a season's best start time and track record with his second run ©Getty Images
Oskars Kibermanis set a season's best start time and track record with his second run ©Getty Images

The race was exceptionally close with just 0.01 seconds separating the first three sleds after the first run.

Despite finishing eighth today, Russia’s Alexander Kasjanov held onto his lead in the World Cup standings. 

Kasjanov has 947 points, 32 more than nearest challenger Rico Peter of Switzerland who took fifth place today.

Germany’s Johannes Lochner, who came fourth today, is third overall with 842 points following the fifth of eight races in the pre-Olympic World Cup season.

Königssee in Germany is due to host the next leg from January 27 to 29.