Lucas Pinheiro Braathen Secures South America’s First Winter Olympics Medal
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen made history by winning South America’s first-ever gold medal at the Winter Olympics. The Brazilian ski racer delivered an impressive performance in the Olympic giant slalom event on February 14, 2026, at the Stelvio Alpine Skiing Centre.
Historic Win for Brazil
At 25 years old, Braathen completed the giant slalom with a combined time of 2 minutes and 25 seconds. His victory came after a thrilling final run amidst challenging weather conditions, including snow and fog.
Key Details of the Event
- Event: Olympic Giant Slalom
- Date: February 14, 2026
- Location: Stelvio Alpine Skiing Centre
- Winning Time: 2:25
Braathen’s winning run placed him ahead of Swiss racer Marco Odermatt, the defending Olympic champion, by 0.58 seconds. Loic Meillard, another Swiss athlete, claimed the bronze medal.
A Unique Journey
Braathen, who has a playful personality, is known for his samba-dance spirit and the phrase “Vamos Dancar” (‘Let’s Dance’) emblazoned on his helmet. He represented Norway until October 2023 but shifted to represent Brazil, his mother’s homeland, in March 2024.
Impact of the Win
His accomplishments include being the first Brazilian alpine racer to reach the World Cup podium and securing Brazil’s inaugural World Cup victory earlier this season. This Olympic gold medal further solidifies his status as a trailblazer for Brazilian sports.
Brazil’s President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, commended Braathen for this groundbreaking achievement. He stated, “This unprecedented result shows Brazilian sport has no limits. It reflects talent, dedication, and continuous work to strengthen sport in every dimension.”
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen’s victory not only marks a significant milestone for himself but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of athletes in Brazil.
