Lucas Braathen is back in the Ski World Cup. © AFP / TIZIANA FABI

Actually true: Lucas Braathen is back in the World Cup

There has been mystery, rumor and speculation for a long time, but now it is clear: Lucas Braathen will return to the ski circus - but not under the Norwegian flag.

March 07, 2024

From: det

When Lucas Braathen appeared before the press on Thursday at 11 a.m., he opened the conference with Portuguese words. Immediately afterwards he added in English: “For everyone who didn’t understand me: I will return to the World Cup and drive for Brazil in the future.”

So it's clear: the ski world has an absolute superstar back. In his short career, Braathen has already won five World Cup races and a slalom crystal ball. Because of these numbers, the shock in October 2023 was huge: a few days before the start of the season in Sölden, Braathen announced his retirement at the age of 23. Differences with the Norwegian association were also a deciding factor.

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However, there were already initial comeback speculations. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he drives for Brazil next year,” said overall World Cup winner Marco Odermatt. The reason: Braathen's mother comes from Brazil, which is why the ski star is also eligible to compete in this country.

Lucas Braathen at the press conference on Thursday. © APA / BARBARA GINDL

Now exactly that scenario has come true. In the past few months, Braathen has not only enjoyed life and tried his hand at modeling, among other things, but has also tackled the “Comeback” project.

He is said to have already trained with AJ Ginnis, the Greek vice world champion. Now the bird of paradise, who always attracts attention with his unusual clothing style and painted fingernails, is back. By the way, the Norwegian association didn't put any obstacles in Braathen's way and let its former athlete go.