Lucas Pinheiro Braathen achieved a remarkable victory at the Levi Men’s Slalom, marking Brazil’s first win in World Cup history. The event, held in Levi, Finland, showcased thrilling performances and nail-biting competition under the Arctic skies.
Braathen’s Dominance
Braathen seized control of the race early, maintaining his lead from the first run and demonstrating skillful navigation through challenging sections of the slope. His time of 1:50:72 secured him the coveted win.
This victory was deeply personal for Braathen, who emphasized the importance of being authentic in his skiing style. He expressed gratitude to his family and supporters, noting the sacrifices made along his journey.
Strong Performances from Competitors
Clement Noël of France finished in second place, exhibiting calm and aggressive skiing that confirmed his reputation as a top athlete. His time was just 0.31 seconds behind Braathen, reinforcing his status with 14 career wins in slalom events.
Eduard Hallberg electrified the home crowd with an exceptional performance, finishing third. His achievement marked the best result for a Finnish male skier in Levi’s World Cup history, surpassing Kalle Palander’s previous record from 2006. Hallberg’s emotional reaction highlighted the significance of his performance.
Team Highlights
- British Skiers: Laurie Taylor achieved outstanding success, finishing fourth with the fastest second run, climbing 11 spots. Dave Ryding also secured a top-ten finish.
- Austrian Team: Manuel Feller and Michael Matt improved their standings with aggressive skiing, ensuring three Austrians placed in the top 11.
- Norwegian Struggles: Henrik Kristoffersen, the previous slalom globe winner, faced difficulties and did not capture a podium finish.
American Milestones
Cooper Puckett, in his first World Cup slalom start, managed to earn points, reflecting a bright future for North American skiing. His gratitude for the unexpected opportunity showcased the underdog spirit often seen in sports.
Official Results: Levi Men’s Slalom
| Rank | Skier | Country | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lucas Pinheiro Braathen | BRA | 1:50:72 |
| 2 | Clement Noël | FRA | +0.31 |
| 3 | Eduard Hallberg | FIN | +0.57 |
| 4 | Laurie Taylor | GBR | +0.61 |
| 5 | Timon Haugan | NOR | +0.77 |
The Levi Men’s Slalom fulfilled expectations of excitement and athleticism, setting the stage for the upcoming races in the World Cup circuit. As skiers prepare to face new challenges, the spirited competition in Levi will be remembered for its extraordinary moments.
