Lucas Pinheiro Braathen expressed a deep sense of destiny as he reintegrates himself into the world of skiing.
Returning to competitive alpine skiing for the 2024-25 season, Lucas Pinheiro Braathen aims to secure Brazil’s inaugural World Cup victory. His decision marks a significant comeback following his retirement just before the 2023 season opener in Sölden, Austria. The 23-year-old, who clinched the 2023 Slalom World Cup, confirmed his return to the sport under Brazil’s flag, having previously represented Norway.
In his announcement, Braathen spoke of aspirations to scale new heights by striving for Brazil’s first FIS World Cup, World Championship, and Winter Olympics medals. He expressed immense pride in representing Brazil, underscoring his multicultural background and his determination to promote diversity in sports.
Reflecting on his roots, Braathen, the son of a Brazilian mother and Norwegian father, highlighted his deep connection to Brazil, which shaped his identity as an athlete. He emphasized that his passion for sports began in São Paulo, playing football with friends and cousins, an experience that he described as feeling destined.
Although born in Oslo, Norway, Braathen spent part of his childhood in Brazil, where he initially encountered skiing upon his return to Norway. Notably, at age 18, he secured a notable second-place finish in the Giant Slalom at the 2018 Norwegian national championships, catching the attention of Olympic champion Kjetil André Aamodt, who recommended him to the Norwegian Ski Federation for accelerated development.
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