Overview

• Lucas Braathen, a 23-year-old former Alpine skiing World Cup slalom champion, announced his return from retirement to compete for Brazil.
• Braathen's decision comes after a dispute with the Norwegian Ski Association over image rights and sponsorship freedoms.
• With a Brazilian mother and Norwegian father, Braathen aims to represent Brazil in future World Cups, world championships, and Olympic Games.
• Brazil has never won a Winter Olympics medal; Braathen's switch marks a significant prospect for the country in the 2026 Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo Olympics.
• The Norwegian Ski Association has agreed to release Braathen's registration, facilitating his switch in national eligibility.