Brazil's Lucas Pinheiro Braathen Wins Historic Gold at 2026 Winter Olympics

The 24-year-old skier earned South America's first medal in Winter Games history.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina delivered a number of unforgettable moments, from figure skater Alysa Liu's remarkable comeback to snowboarder Chloe Kim's gracious silver medal performance. But one of the biggest stories was Brazil's Lucas Pinheiro Braathen winning gold in the men's giant slalom, earning South America's first ever medal at the Winter Games.

Why it matters

Braathen's historic victory represents a major milestone for winter sports in Brazil and across South America. As a region that has traditionally struggled to develop winter sports programs and talent, Braathen's gold medal breakthrough could inspire a new generation of athletes and help grow interest and participation in skiing, snowboarding, and other cold-weather disciplines.

The details

In the men's giant slalom event, the 24-year-old Braathen put together an impressive four-run performance to capture the gold medal. He is the first athlete from Brazil, and the first from South America, to win a medal at the Winter Olympics. Braathen, who switched to represent Brazil after previously competing for Norway, has been supported by fans in his mother's home country throughout his journey.

  • Braathen won the gold medal in the men's giant slalom on February 18, 2026.

The players

Lucas Pinheiro Braathen

A 24-year-old Brazilian skier who won the gold medal in the men's giant slalom, earning South America's first ever medal at the Winter Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“I've tried over and over again to put words into what it is that I'm feeling, but it's simply impossible.”

— Lucas Pinheiro Braathen (townandcountrymag.com)

“I was skiing with my heart, and when you ski the way you are, anything is possible. The only thing that matters to me is that I remain who I am. I am a Brazilian skier who became an Olympic champion.”

— Lucas Pinheiro Braathen (townandcountrymag.com)

What’s next

Braathen's gold medal is expected to inspire more winter sports participation and development in Brazil and across South America. The Olympic Committee will likely look to capitalize on the momentum by investing in grassroots programs and supporting more athletes from the region to compete at future Winter Games.

The takeaway

Lucas Pinheiro Braathen's historic gold medal triumph at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina represents a major breakthrough for winter sports in Brazil and South America. His achievement could pave the way for greater investment, participation, and success in cold-weather disciplines across the region in the years to come.