BORMIO, Italy — Lucas Pinheiro Braathen made history Saturday by clinching gold in the Olympic giant slalom, marking the first Winter Olympics medal for Brazil. As snow flurries fell and fog enveloped the Stelvio course, the 25-year-old racer displayed remarkable poise and skill, navigating the challenging terrain with precision. He completed the event with a combined time of 2 minutes, 25 seconds, edging out defending Olympic champion Marco Odermatt of Switzerland by 0.58 seconds. Loic Meillard, another Swiss racer, secured the bronze medal.
In a sport where grit and grace converge, Pinheiro Braathen stood out not just for his athleticism but also for his celebratory spirit. Adorned with “Vamos Dancar” — or “Let’s Dance” — emblazoned on his helmet, the skier embraced the joyous Carnival season, a vibrant festival synonymous with his Brazilian heritage. After his triumphant run, he fell to the snow, overcome with emotion, before celebrating his milestone achievement.
“I’ve tried over and over again to express what I’m feeling, but it’s simply impossible,” he said, after learning he had taken the top spot. Pinheiro Braathen, who initially raced for Norway before switching allegiance, has been shattering records and expectations throughout his career. In 2022, he became the first Brazilian to finish on a World Cup podium, followed by securing the country’s inaugural World Cup victory earlier this season.
“My heart is shining bright right now. This light helped me become the fastest in the world today,” Pinheiro Braathen shared, reflecting on his journey. He continued, “Skiing with your heart makes anything possible. I am proud to be a Brazilian skier and now an Olympic champion.”
Emotions ran high as he stood on the podium, his national anthem playing amidst a symphony of cheers. For Pinheiro Braathen, who grew up idolizing the Brazilian football team, hearing his anthem echoed in the mountains was a surreal culmination of his hard work and dedication. “Being the reason people hear and share that anthem in this setting is something I will cherish forever,” he remarked.
Back in Milan, his local fans gathered at “Casa Brasil,” where they erupted in applause as he completed his run. Clad in the nation’s colors, supporters waved signs and proudly danced to samba-infused music, celebrating his historic win. One enthusiastic fan wore a “Lucas Fan Club” shirt, symbolizing the growing support for winter sports in Brazil.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva praised Pinheiro Braathen’s exceptional achievement, emphasizing the medal’s significance for the nation’s sporting landscape. “This landmark result highlights that Brazilian sport knows no bounds,” he stated on social media, commending the dedication and talent that fueled this victory.
The Olympic competition also saw Odermatt adding to his medal tally, having already secured silver in the team event and bronze in the super-G. “Three medals is amazing,” he said, recognizing the intensity of the competition.
Amid the celebrations, Norwegian skier Atle Lie McGrath honored the memory of his grandfather who passed away on the day of the opening ceremony, finishing fifth in the event. The heartfelt tribute underscored the poignant mix of joy and sorrow that defines the Olympic experience.