Slovenian canoeists miss expectations at World Championship in Oklahoma

At the 2024 World Canoe Slalom Championship in Oklahoma City, Slovenian paddlers Eva Alina Hočevar and Lea Novak under‑performed in the women's qualifiers, finishing 29th and 40th respectively, well behind the pre‑event favorites. German Ricarda Funk topped the qualification round, while the men’s podium was claimed by Britain’s Joseph Clarke (gold), Czech Jakub Krejči (silver) and Spain’s David Llorente (bronze).

In the men’s races, Žiga Lin Hočevar failed to reach the individual cross elimination round after a judges’ error on the course, and he later disclosed ongoing knee problems ahead of his races. The Slovenian team, which includes Olympic veteran Benjamin Savšek and other hopefuls, hopes to secure Olympic quota places despite the disappointing early results.

The semifinals and finals are scheduled for Thursday, with the women's team still aiming to improve their standings.