Lucas Pinheiro Braathen Makes History for Brazil at the Winter Olympics
In a historic day for Brazilian sport, Lucas Pinheiro Braathen was crowned Olympic champion in the giant slalom alpine skiing discipline at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The competition, held on the demanding Stelvio track in Bormio, was dominated by the 25-year-old skier from the first run. Pinheiro clocked a total time of 2:25.00 minutes, beating Swiss Marco Odermatt, the current champion, by 58 hundredths of a second. The podium was completed by the Swiss Loic Meillard, who won the bronze medal 1.17 seconds behind the winner.Visibly emotional after crossing the finish line, Pinheiro dedicated his victory to his family, team, and the entire Brazilian people. Born in Oslo, Pinheiro initially competed representing Norway, achieving five World Cup victories. However, after differences with the Norwegian federation, he announced his retirement in 2023, shortly after winning the slalom Crystal Globe. In March 2024, he decided to return to competition, this time defending the colors of Brazil, his mother’s nation. He achieved his first podium in Beaver Creek and, in November, secured the first Brazilian victory in the World Cup by winning the slalom in Levi. Now, in Milan-Cortina 2026, he reached the top by awarding Brazil its first gold in a Winter Olympics. On Monday, in Bormio, Pinheiro will have the opportunity to expand his legend in the slalom event.I don’t know what to say. I have so many emotions right now that I can’t find a way to express them
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen
