BORMIO, Italy — Brazilian ski racer Lucas Pinheiro Braathen has taken the lead in the Olympic giant slalom event, positioning himself to potentially earn South America’s first-ever medal at a Winter Games. Following the completion of the first of two runs on Saturday, Pinheiro Braathen has set the stage for an exciting final run later in the day, as he will compete last among the top 30 skiers in a reverse order based on their times.
The 22-year-old racer was the first to tackle the Stelvio course, clocking in at 1 minute, 13.92 seconds, which secured him a 0.95-second lead over defending Olympic champion Marco Odermatt from Switzerland. Teammate Loic Meillard follows in third place, trailing by 1.57 seconds.
Pinheiro Braathen is not only known for his skiing prowess but also for his vibrant personality, often seen dancing to samba music. Adorned on the back of his helmet are the words “Vamos Dancar,” meaning “Let’s Dance,” reflecting his joyful spirit. His participation in the Olympics coincides with Brazil’s Carnival season, renowned for its lively parades and celebratory atmosphere.
Originally competing for Norway, Pinheiro Braathen switched to represent Brazil—his mother’s homeland—last season. He has already made history as the first Brazilian Alpine skier to achieve a podium finish in the World Cup and has secured Brazil’s inaugural World Cup victory this season.
Addressing the importance of this Olympic moment, Pinheiro Braathen acknowledged the pressures of representing his country. “I’d be a liar if I said it was easy,” he remarked, adding that he embraces the challenge as a catalyst for change.
As anticipation builds in Milan, fans draped in Brazil’s signature green and yellow are gathering at “Casa Brasil,” eager to view his thrilling second run on a large screen. The timing of the event aligns perfectly with a potential celebration involving Brazil’s national cocktail, the caipirinha, made with cachaça, lime, sugar, and ice.
This could be a momentous occasion that unites fans and showcases the spirit of Brazilian pride in the Winter Olympics.