Brazilian skier Lucas Pinheiro Braathen is on the verge of making history by potentially securing his country’s first-ever Winter Olympic 2026 medal. In the heart of the Austrian Alps, at the ski-crazed resort of Solden, spectators might have expected traditional tunes like Austria’s 1980s hit Live Is Life by Opus or even a classic waltz. Instead, they were treated to an energetic Brazilian samba.

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After a lightning-fast giant slalom run that vaulted him into the lead, Braathen celebrated by stepping out of his ski bindings and breaking into an impromptu samba dance. His lively performance electrified the 17,000-strong crowd, turning the finish area into a jubilant celebration.

Despite ultimately finishing fourth in his debut race representing Brazil just behind three of his former Norwegian teammates Braathen’s dynamic performance, both on the slopes and in the finish area, marked a memorable start to his new chapter.

Milano Cortina 2026: Braathen Takes Fourth in Brazilian Skiing Debut

Winter Olympic 2026: I don’t know how to explain moments like that, Lucas Pinheiro Braathen admitted shortly after the race. Words can never describe the emotions. It’s a mix of so much pain, sacrifice, and the roller coaster of a year spent trying to find myself. I’m so proud of what I achieved today, and I hope to accomplish so much more in the future.

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For the vibrant 24-year-old ski racer, this race marked a significant milestone both on the slopes and in his career. Or, perhaps more fittingly, it marked several milestones if one counts his flawless samba steps in the finish area. Now competing for Brazil, his mother’s homeland, Braathen has embraced his dual heritage.

Under the brilliant sunshine of Austria’s Reteach Glacier, Braathen’s joy was infectious. After an incredible second run, he held onto the lead for an astonishing 15 racers before being edged out by former Norwegian teammates Alexander Steen Olsen, Atle Lie McGrath, and Henrik Kristofferson. Despite being overtaken, the camaraderie was evident as the trio joined in celebrating Braathen’s remarkable debut for Brazil.

Braathen Journey beyond the Slopes in Winter Olympic 2026

Lucas Pinheiro Braathen’s debut for Brazil wasn’t just a breakthrough for the skier it was a milestone for a nation better known for soccer, surfing, and beach volleyball. Now, skiing can be added to that list. When POWDER Magazine playfully asked if Brazilians were celebrating in the streets of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Braathen burst into laughter. Winter Olympic 2026 Icons at Gsiesertal Lauf.

Winter Olympic 2026: I’d like to think so I’ll imagine it, he replied. If I can speak to my second home in Brazil, I’m so proud to be skiing in what’s traditionally such a German-centric, winter sport, and seeing a Brazilian flag on that leaderboard where it’s never been before. I’m here to change things, to challenge perspectives, and to inspire people to follow their paths.

The moment carried extra weight, as it was exactly one year ago in Solden that Braathen shocked the skiing world by announcing his retirement at just 23. His return and newfound passion, now representing Brazil, underscore a powerful message of resilience, reinvention, and the joy of pursuing what truly fulfills you.

New Beginnings Braathen Milan Eyes in Winter Olympic

Winter Olympic 2026: Lucas Pinheiro Braathen’s journey has been anything but conventional. The skier found himself at odds with the Norwegian Ski Federation, embroiled in a dispute over clothing sponsorship rights. Known for his outspoken nature, Braathen also expressed discomfort. With conforming to the federation’s strict system, ultimately sitting out the entire previous season.

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Solden has been a pivotal stage in Braathen’s career. It was there, in October 2020, that he claimed his first World Cup victory. Marking the start of an impressive tenure with the Norwegian team. Over his career with Norway, Braathen amassed five World Cup victories three in slalom and two in giant slalom. And clinched the prestigious 2023 World Cup slalom title at just 22 years old.

Now competing for Brazil, Braathen is optimistic about the future, particularly with the Milan-Cortina 2026 just 15 months away. Reflecting on his fresh start, he remarked. I feel like I’m in the second chapter of my career, and we started on the right terms. I’m looking forward to what’s next.

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