Historic Win for Brazil in Alpine Skiing
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen achieved a monumental milestone for Brazilian sports on Sunday, November 16, 2025, by securing the nation's first-ever Alpine Ski World Cup victory. The 25-year-old skier triumphed in the men's slalom event held in Levi, Finland, marking a significant moment in the history of Brazilian winter sports.
Braathen, who was born in Norway to a Norwegian father and Brazilian mother, made the decision to represent Brazil in March 2024, following a period away from the sport. His victory in Levi was the opening race of the 2025-26 men's slalom Alpine World Cup tour.
Race Details and Podium Finishers
In a thrilling competition, Braathen demonstrated exceptional skill and composure. He established a commanding lead of 0.41 seconds after the first run, a crucial advantage he maintained through the second run. His aggregate time for the two runs was 1 minute, 50.72 seconds.
The podium was rounded out by formidable competitors:
- Second Place: Clément Noël of France, the reigning Olympic slalom champion, finished 0.31 seconds behind Braathen.
- Third Place: Eduard Hallberg of Finland secured his first World Cup podium finish, delighting the home crowd in Levi. This also marked Finland's first podium finish in Levi.
A Personal and National Triumph
Braathen's victory is not only a national achievement for Brazil but also a deeply personal one for the skier. He had previously won five World Cup races and the 2022-23 Slalom Crystal Globe while competing for Norway. However, a fallout with the Norwegian ski federation over personal marketing rights led him to take a year-long break from the sport before returning to represent his mother's homeland.
Reflecting on his journey, Braathen stated, 'This journey has been so difficult and lonely. But I've followed my own path. I'm so grateful to everyone who believed in me. This isn't just a World Cup victory for me; it's a personal victory too. I hope I can inspire others to follow their own path.' He further added, 'I try to ski with my heart and in my own way, even if it comes with big sacrifices. Being oneself is a tough road, but for me it's the right way, and today it led me to the very top.'
As a traditional prize for winning in Levi, Braathen was presented with a reindeer. His historic win significantly boosts Brazil's aspirations for its first-ever Olympic medal in Alpine skiing.
7 Comments
Mariposa
This is a great story of an athlete finding success on his own terms, bringing a first World Cup to Brazil. Still, the underlying issue of personal marketing rights versus federation control highlights a growing tension in professional sports that needs addressing.
Muchacha
Brazil on top of the ski world! Love to see it.
Bella Ciao
Norway must be fuming. A talent lost due to federation issues.
Comandante
"Personal marketing rights"? Sounds like greed over national pride.
Africa
This victory shows true grit and determination. Well deserved!
Michelangelo
It's fantastic to see Brazil achieve a historic win in Alpine skiing, and Braathen's personal journey is certainly compelling. However, the circumstances of his switch from Norway do raise questions about national loyalty in sports.
Noir Black
So proud of Lucas! First-ever World Cup for Brazil is incredible.