Pinheiro Braathen Claims South America’s First Winter Olympics Gold
Brazillian skier Lucas Pinheiro Braathen made history by winning South America’s first winter Olympics gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Bormio, Italy. The competition took place on February 14, where Pinheiro Braathen showcased exceptional skill in the men’s giant slalom event.
Historic Victory in Alpine Skiing
Pinheiro Braathen’s remarkable journey began with two powerful runs, culminating in a winning time of 2 minutes and 25 seconds. His victory marked a significant milestone for Brazil, bringing home the nation’s first winter Olympic medal. He finished ahead of defending Olympic champion Marco Odermatt of Switzerland by 0.58 seconds, with Loic Meillard, another Swiss racer, capturing the bronze medal.
Cultural Celebration and Personal Triumph
Celebrating in true Brazilian fashion, Pinheiro Braathen performed samba steps at the podium while his national anthem played. This moment held special significance, not only for him but also for his nation, as it coincided with Brazil’s Carnival season. Pinheiro Braathen had previously represented Norway but switched allegiance to Brazil, his mother’s birthplace, and secured numerous firsts for the Brazilian Alpine skiing community.
- First Brazilian Alpine racer to earn a World Cup podium finish
- First Brazilian to win a World Cup race
- First South American to win an Olympic medal in winter sports
The Journey to Olympic Success
Pinheiro Braathen’s ascent to Olympic champion reflects a passionate journey. He expressed that he was racing with his heart, which contributed significantly to his success. During the event, he wore a helmet with the phrase “Vamos Dancar,” translating to “Let’s Dance,” encapsulating his joyful spirit during the celebration.
Despite his immense achievement, he remains grateful for his roots in Norway, where he began his skiing career. He emphasized the importance of perspective and self-discovery in achieving his dreams.
Reactions and Reflections
Pinheiro Braathen’s historic win prompted reactions from fellow competitors, including Marco Odermatt. While acknowledging Pinheiro Braathen’s skills, Odermatt noted that his background in Norway didn’t affect the significance of the competition.
The atmosphere during his runs was electrifying, with fans donning Brazil’s colors cheering passionately. The excitement reached a peak with songs celebrating victory in the crowd as Pinheiro Braathen completed his runs.
With this triumph, Pinheiro Braathen is set to influence the future of skiing in Brazil. His journey serves as an inspiration for athletes in a nation traditionally less associated with winter sports, paving the way for greater recognition of the sport within the country.
