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Brazilian-Norwegian skier makes Winter Olympics history
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen secured Brazil's first-ever Winter Olympic medal by claiming gold in the giant slalom at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Games. The victory also marks the first podium finish for any South American nation in Winter Olympics history.
From retirement to redemption
Born in Oslo to a Norwegian father and Brazilian mother, Braathen initially competed for Norway, winning 12 World Cup medals. However, in 2023, he abruptly retired at age 23, citing a loss of passion for the sport. After a year away, he returned-this time representing Brazil-to honor his mother's heritage and rediscover his love for skiing.
A dominant performance in challenging conditions
Racing in snowy conditions on the Stelvio piste in Bormio, the 25-year-old delivered a flawless run to edge out Swiss favorite Marco Odermatt by 0.58 seconds. Odermatt, the defending Olympic champion and four-time overall World Cup leader, had set a blistering pace in the second run but couldn't close the gap. Loïc Meillard of Switzerland took bronze.
Braathen led by 0.95 seconds after the first run, with only seven skiers within two seconds of his time. Despite worsening weather, he held his nerve to claim gold, leaving Odermatt without an Olympic title despite his dominance in the sport.
A life between two cultures
Braathen's upbringing was marked by constant movement. His parents separated when he was young, and though his father-a self-described "ski bum"-had custody, Braathen spent much of his childhood traveling between Norway and Brazil. He moved homes 21 times before turning 22, a nomadic lifestyle that shaped his identity.
"I'm a person of cultural duality. Two perspectives always presented from birth... I've never lived a life where I'm only exposed to one reality, one culture, or one way of living. It's always been these polar opposites, and that has shaped me."
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, Associated Press
Initially resistant to skiing, Braathen preferred football and dreamed of following in the footsteps of his hero, Ronaldinho. But by age eight, the speed and thrill of ski racing captivated him, setting him on a path to elite competition.
Breaking barriers with flair
Known for his eccentric personality, Braathen embraces fashion, has walked runways in Copenhagen, and owns an apartment in Milan. He paints his nails and celebrates victories with samba dances, aiming to bring more color and inclusivity to alpine skiing.
"People seeing themselves in a sport they were told wasn't for them-that stays with me. Kids asking where they can try snow. Norway taught me how to be an athlete, how to brave the cold. Brazil taught me how to be myself."
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen
A triumph of self-discovery
Braathen's journey took a dramatic turn when he retired in 2023, declaring he had lost his "joy of living." He spent a year in Brazil before returning to competition under the Brazilian flag, calling it the "biggest project of my life." His first World Cup win in Brazilian colors came in November, but Saturday's Olympic gold surpassed all expectations.
"I'm not even able to grasp reality right now. I hope I can inspire kids out there-despite what they wear, how they look, or where they come from-to follow their dreams and be who they truly are. That's the real source of happiness."
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen
What's next for Braathen?
The Milan-Cortina Games continue through February 22, with Braathen's historic achievement already cementing his legacy. Fans can follow the remainder of the Olympics via live streams, radio updates, and text commentary on BBC platforms (UK only).
