Girardelli Praises Showman Pinheiro Braathen’s Impact on Alpine Skiing

Marc Girardelli, a former world champion, has commended Brazilian skier Lucas Pinheiro Braathen for his significant impact on Alpine skiing. Braathen, 25, aims to broaden the appeal of this sport beyond its traditional European roots. He will showcase his remarkable skills at the Milano Cortina Olympics, participating in the giant slalom.

Lucas Pinheiro Braathen: A New Era in Alpine Skiing

Born in Norway, Braathen now represents Brazil, the country of his mother, Alessandra. As he prepares for the Olympics, he is on a mission to secure South America’s first medal in Winter Olympic history. Girardelli expressed admiration for Braathen’s enthusiasm, particularly noting his eye-catching role as a flagbearer during the opening ceremony in Milan.

Pushing Boundaries and Breaking Norms

Braathen previously retired from the Norwegian ski federation after winning the World Cup slalom title in 2023. He felt restricted and desired greater freedom to work with his sponsors. His return, donning the colors of Brazil, signifies a bold new chapter. He stated, “The time has come, Brazil. Let’s dance,” signaling his intent to celebrate and energize the sport.

Girardelli’s Vision for the Future

Speaking at a Bormio Tourism event, Girardelli emphasized that athletes like Braathen, who possess strong personalities, can enhance the sport’s visibility. He remarked, “People turn on TV because of personalities, not only because of athletes.” Although Norwegian athletes like Henrik Kristoffersen are technically skilled, Braathen’s unique persona sets him apart.

• Braathen is a notable fashion icon collaborating with luxury brands like Moncler.
• He is recognized not just for skiing but also for his DJ performances and love of surfing.
• His recent achievements include being the first Brazilian to win a World Cup race in Levi, Finland.

Currently, Braathen ranks second in the overall World Cup standings, trailing only behind Swiss legend Marco Odermatt. Girardelli commented on his potential, suggesting he might perform better in slalom than in giant slalom, yet sees the possibility of medal wins in both events.

Enhancing the Appeal of Alpine Skiing

Girardelli firmly believes that more athletes like Braathen are essential to elevate the sport’s profile, especially against the popularity of other sports like golf and soccer. He insists that while Alpine skiing is a risky and challenging discipline, it must learn to become more entertaining and accessible to a broader audience.

As the Olympics approach, all eyes will be on Lucas Pinheiro Braathen to see how he fares in the giant slalom. His vibrant flair and dedication could very well usher in a new era for Alpine skiing, making it more engaging for fans worldwide.