Milan Cortina 2026: Braathen and Silveira Lead South America's Historic Winter Olympic Bid
The picturesque landscapes of Milan and Cortina are set to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, and this year, the world will be watching not just for the usual powerhouses, but for a potential seismic shift in Winter Games history. For the first time, a South American nation is poised to claim a medal on the snow and ice, thanks to the extraordinary talents of alpine skier Lucas Pinheiro Braathen and skeleton competitor Nicole Rocha Silveira, both proudly representing Brazil.
A Tale of Two Athletes, One Shared Dream
The quest for South America's inaugural Winter Olympic medal rests on the shoulders of two remarkable athletes. Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, a name already synonymous with excellence in alpine skiing, and Nicole Rocha Silveira, a rising star in the thrilling, high-speed world of skeleton, are the focal points of this historic ambition. Both have overcome unique challenges and embraced their Brazilian heritage to reach this pinnacle of international sport.
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen: From Norwegian Prodigy to Brazilian Icon
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen's journey is nothing short of a sporting saga. Born in Oslo to a Brazilian mother and a Norwegian father, Braathen initially carved his path on the international ski circuit representing Norway. His talent was undeniable; he achieved the world's number one ranking in slalom and was a formidable contender in giant slalom. However, at the young age of 23, Braathen delivered a shockwave through the skiing world with his abrupt retirement just before the 2023-24 season.
A tearful press conference revealed the underlying cause: a long-standing conflict with the Norwegian ski federation concerning athlete marketing rights. This personal struggle led Braathen to make a bold decision. He booked a one-way ticket to Brazil, a country he had visited annually as a child and where he had fallen in love with the spirit of sport, particularly through playing soccer on the streets of São Paulo.
Stranded for a period on the island of Ilhabela, outside São Paulo, Braathen experienced a profound reconnection with his Brazilian roots. This period of reflection led to a desire to unretire, but this time, to ski for Brazil. After securing the necessary release from the Norwegian federation, Braathen embarked on a new chapter, determined to represent the nation that had always held a special place in his heart. "I fell in love with sports over there (playing soccer on the streets of São Paulo), so to be able to come full circle, to be able to represent them in the World Cup of a sport, it truly means a lot," he stated in 2024. "To be able to bring the dance to the snow is what I’m seeking to do."
Braathen's commitment to Brazil has been evident in his performances. In 2024, he became the first Brazilian skier to achieve an Alpine World Cup podium, celebrating the milestone with a spontaneous samba in the Colorado snow. His victory last November in the Arctic Circle in Finland was met with a triumphant "Vamos Brazil!" shouted into a finish area camera, followed by the proud strains of the Brazilian national anthem. He has embraced his dual identity, stating, "Norway taught me how to be an athlete, how to brave the cold. Brazil taught me how to be myself."
Nicole Rocha Silveira: From Nurse to Skeleton Sensation
Complementing Braathen's alpine prowess is Nicole Rocha Silveira, a formidable force in women's skeleton. Silveira, born on Brazil's southern tip, moved to Canada at around age seven. Her path to elite sport has also been unique, including a period as a nurse at Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary. This dedication to care is reflected in her striking helmet, adorned with artwork of a Brazilian parrot wearing a stethoscope.
Silveira's family's journey to Canada was not a direct one. Initially exploring options, they considered Miami, but her father felt there were already too many Brazilians in the area. Calgary emerged as their second choice. Silveira's athletic career took an unexpected turn in 2017 when, while working at a supplement shop, she met a customer who was involved in skeleton, igniting a passion for the high-octane sport.
Her dedication has seen her rise through the ranks. Silveira is currently ranked ninth in the world in women's skeleton and has achieved three World Cup race podiums over the past two seasons. Her impressive performance at the 2025 World Championships, where she secured fourth place, has positioned her as a strong contender for a medal in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
The Road to Milan Cortina: Historic Potential
Both Braathen and Silveira carried the Brazilian flag with pride during the Opening Ceremony, a symbolic gesture of their aspirations. Braathen's giant slalom and slalom competitions are scheduled for Saturday and Monday, respectively. Silveira's skeleton events will take place on Friday and Saturday, with medalists determined by the combined times from four runs.
The prospect of a South American nation standing on the Winter Olympic podium is a monumental one. While both athletes honed their skills in the Northern Hemisphere, their hearts beat for Brazil. Their success would not only be a personal triumph but a watershed moment for winter sports in South America, inspiring a new generation of athletes and captivating audiences worldwide. As they prepare to compete, the world watches, hoping to witness history being made.
