Pinheiro Braathen Secures Giant Slalom Globe, Odermatt Falls Short in Lillehammer
Lillehammer, Norway – Lucas Pinheiro Braathen of Brazil clinched the World Cup giant slalom title on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the Lillehammer World Cup Finals in Hafjell. The victory was made all the more dramatic by the early exit of pre-competition favorite Marco Odermatt in the first run. Braathen, already leading after the initial run, solidified his position in the second, finishing ahead of Loic Meillard and Atle Lie McGrath.
The win marks a historic achievement for Pinheiro Braathen, who became the first Brazilian and South American athlete to win a Winter Olympic medal – a gold in giant slalom at the 2026 Milano Cortina Games – and now adds a World Cup discipline title to his impressive resume. He previously represented Norway internationally before switching allegiance to Brazil in March 2024. This season’s success underscores a remarkable career trajectory for the 25-year-old skier.
Odermatt’s Disappointment
The day didn’t move as planned for Switzerland’s Marco Odermatt, who was aiming to defend his giant slalom title. An early mistake in the first run forced him off course, effectively ending his chances at the Globe and handing the advantage to Pinheiro Braathen. The unexpected turn of events opened the door for the Brazilian skier to capitalize and secure the coveted crystal globe.
Italian Skiers Struggle in Norway
The Italian team faced a challenging day on the slopes of Hafjell. Alex Vinatzer finished 19th, while Giovanni Franzoni placed 21st, both falling short of contention. Vinatzer, reflecting on his performance, acknowledged difficulties with spring snow conditions. “In general, this season I realized I have problems with spring snow. I don’t perceive comfortable, and I can’t achieve the results I was getting earlier in the season when the snow was more consistent,” he said, as reported by sources. Franzoni, despite his 21st-place finish, expressed a sense of relief as the season concludes. “I skied a bit more aggressively, unfortunately the snow was slippery in the middle section. I believe I did a little better, now I can relax after an incredible season. I think I managed my emotions well throughout the year.”
Pinheiro Braathen’s Dominance in the Giant Slalom
Pinheiro Braathen’s victory in Lillehammer wasn’t just about Odermatt’s misfortune; it was a testament to his consistent performance throughout the season. He finished atop the giant slalom standings, ahead of Odermatt and Meillard. In the overall World Cup standings, he secured second place, just behind Odermatt. This season marks his second discipline title, adding to his slalom title from 2023.
The Brazilian skier has now accumulated eight World Cup wins – four in slalom and four in giant slalom – and a total of 25 podium finishes (14 in slalom, 11 in giant slalom) throughout his seven seasons on the World Cup circuit. His journey to the top has been marked by dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Looking Ahead
With the giant slalom Globe secured, Pinheiro Braathen’s focus will likely shift towards preparing for future competitions and continuing to represent Brazil on the international stage. His success is already inspiring a new generation of skiers in Brazil and across South America, demonstrating that winter sports are accessible to athletes from all corners of the globe. The next scheduled event for the alpine skiing World Cup circuit is yet to be announced, but fans can follow updates on the official FIS Alpine Skiing website.
Pinheiro Braathen’s story is a compelling one – a Norwegian-born athlete choosing to represent his mother’s homeland, achieving Olympic glory, and now dominating the World Cup circuit. It’s a narrative that resonates beyond the sport itself, highlighting themes of identity, belonging, and the power of pursuing one’s dreams.
The 2026 World Cup Finals in Lillehammer concluded with a thrilling finish in the men’s giant slalom, solidifying Lucas Pinheiro Braathen’s place among the elite skiers in the world.
