Norwegian-born star Pinheiro Braathen, who has been competing for his mother's homeland Brazil since this winter, celebrated the historic first podium finish for the country by dancing samba in the finish area.
What a moment to get to dance in front of all these fantastic supporters here today. I came here to make a difference, to be myself and hopefully inspire people out there who feel a little different to dare to go their own way, says Pinheiro Braathen.
There was more dancing later at the prize ceremony, where he wrapped in the Brazilian flag and wearing cowboy boots continued the celebration on the podium.
It's such a privilege to get to be the first to take Brazil's flag – which I'm very proud of – up on a World Cup podium in winter sports.
"Go your own way"
He is one of the biggest personalities in the alpine skiing world, known for painting his nails and having a great interest in clothes – and with football icon Ronaldinho and basketball star Dennis Rodman as role models.
I like to dress a little differently and be myself, I'm proud of it and I hope that the story I've been a part of writing today can represent the effect of going your own way, says Pinheiro Braathen.
Pinheiro Braathen's success in the slalom on Sunday, however, received modest attention in Brazil – it was overshadowed by matches in the national football league, which was in its final round.
Has five wins for Norway
The 24-year-old Pinheiro Braathen announced in March that he would make a comeback in the World Cup circuit – but not for Norway, which he previously competed for. The star did not compete at all last season due to a sponsorship conflict with the Norwegian Ski Federation.
Instead, he chose his mother's homeland, and for the first time since 2016, Brazil has a skier in the alpine World Cup.
As a competitor for Norway, Pinheiro Braathen won five World Cup competitions – three in slalom and two in giant slalom.
After the second place – Thomas Tumler, Switzerland, won with a 12-hundredth margin – Pinheiro Braathen is aiming for Brazil's first win, when the World Cup continues in Val d'Isere this weekend.
