Lucas Pinheiro Braathen’s recent triumph in the opening slalom of the World Cup season in Levi, Finland has ignited Brazil’s aspirations for its inaugural Olympic medal in alpine skiing. The victory, achieved three months ahead of the men’s slalom event at the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics on February 16, marked a significant milestone for the Brazilian skier.
Securing a commanding lead in the first run, Pinheiro Braathen finished with a time of one minute 50.72 seconds, surpassing 2022 Olympic champion Clement Noel of France by a narrow margin of 0.31 seconds. The elated Pinheiro Braathen, draped in the Brazilian flag, expressed his joy by falling to his knees, removing his skis, and jubilantly shouting “yeah” with both arms raised.
Reflecting on his victory, Pinheiro Braathen emphasized his commitment to skiing authentically, stating, “It represents who I am, I think. I am trying to do it my way, trying to ski with my heart, trying to ski for myself instead of for others.” This win marked his sixth career victory and the first since he transitioned to competing for Brazil after parting ways with the Norwegian ski federation last year.
Acknowledging the challenges he faced on his journey, Pinheiro Braathen expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and team for their unwavering support and belief in him. He highlighted the personal significance of the win, aiming to inspire others to embrace their individuality and pursue their unique paths.
In the same event, two Canadian skiers, Liam Wallace and Erik Read, did not qualify for the second run, finishing 39th and 59th, respectively. Pinheiro Braathen, known for his distinctive style and vibrant personality, had previously clinched five podium results for Brazil before his groundbreaking victory in Levi.
Looking ahead, Pinheiro Braathen expressed optimism about his future endeavors, affirming his belief that his success for Brazil is just the beginning. With a strategic approach and unwavering determination, he aims to continue making his mark in the competitive world of alpine skiing.
The World Cup event in Levi also saw other notable performances, including Eduard Hallberg finishing third and reigning World Cup slalom champion Henrik Kristoffersen placing 13th. The competition showcased a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.