In a moment that will echo through Brazilian sports history forever, Lucas Pinheiro Braathen has rewritten the record books, storming to gold in the men’s giant slalom and delivering Brazil’s inaugural Winter Olympic medal—a stunning gold no less—at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games.
The 25-year-old Norwegian-Brazilian sensation, who switched allegiance to represent his mother’s homeland just two years ago, dominated the Stelvio course in Bormio on Saturday, February 14, 2026. After laying down a blistering first run time of 1:13.92—nearly a full second ahead of Swiss star Marco Odermatt—he held his nerve in the decisive second run to seal the victory and etch his name into eternity.
This triumph marks the first Winter Olympic medal ever for any South American nation, a landmark achievement that transcends borders and inspires a new generation. For Brazil, a country synonymous with soccer glory and summer heat, seeing one of its athletes atop the podium in the snow is pure magic.
Pinheiro Braathen, who briefly retired before a comeback and his switch from Norway (his father’s side), had already made waves: first Brazilian on a World Cup podium, first World Cup win for the nation this season. But Olympic gold? That’s next-level legend status.
Emotional scenes unfolded at the finish line as his Brazilian mother and Norwegian father rushed to embrace him, tears flowing freely. The skier, known for his flair and resilience, had battled back from setbacks to deliver when it mattered most.
“What a race. What a moment,” the excitement captured perfectly in celebrations online and on the slopes. With hashtags like #fisalpine, #ilovesnow, and #passionbeyondlimits trending, the world is buzzing about this historic breakthrough.
Pinheiro Braathen’s golden run proves anything is possible—proving that passion, grit, and a bit of Brazilian flair can conquer even the coldest peaks.
Congratulations, Lucas! 🇧🇷🥇✨ Brazil’s first Olympic winter hero is here, and the future looks bright (and snowy).
Stay tuned to College Sports Network for more from Milano-Cortina, athlete stories, and the biggest moments in winter sports! ❄️🏅
