Lucas Braathen dropped a bombshell on the skiing world back on October 27, 2023, announcing his retirement at just 23 years old. That decision had a lot to do with the fallout with the Norwegian Ski Federation. It was a surprising decision, especially considering he was at the peak of his game. Lucas faced a small group of stunned reporters before the opening World Cup event in Soelden, saying, “I’m done. For the first time in my career, I feel free.”

But, as it turns out, Lucas just couldn’t stay away from the slopes. Fast forward five months and the slalom World Cup champ is back in the game—this time with a major twist. Instead of repping Norway, he’s switching teams. And with the FIS Ski World Cup around the corner, Lucas is ready to chase his ambitions, full throttle with a bold claim!

Switching gears, Lucas Braathen makes a grand return to the snowy peaks

Lucas Braathen is back and ready to make some noise in the skiing world—this time as a proud member of Team Brazil. Talking to Eurosport, he opened up about his intense preparation for the FIS Ski World Cup, revealing he skipped his entire summer vacation to get his body back in prime racing shape. He was all-in, hitting the slopes hard, and even flew to New Zealand to acclimate to the conditions. “It’s been a long and intense summer of physical development,” Lucas said, and he wasn’t kidding. While the unpredictable weather sometimes threw him for a loop, he learned to roll with the punches, a skill he says is key for any serious ski racer.

But here’s the bold part—Lucas Braathen made it crystal clear: “I think it goes without saying that I’m not coming back to be anything other than the best.” And with that kind of attitude, his competitors might want to watch out. After all, he is the 2023 Slalom World Cup Champion. He also admitted that some days were really good for his preparation. Lucas Braathen also learned the valuable skill of adaptability. So what caused the dramatic split with the Norwegian Ski Federation, choosing Brazil?

What prompted Braathen to trade Norway for Brazil in his skiing comeback?

Well, after Lucas Braathen stunned the skiing world with his retirement announcement last year leaving fans wondering why he took the massive step in his career at just 23. But he explained, “In order for me to continue skiing within this system, I had to not only put my dreams aside, but also my joy of living. I’m not willing to do that anymore.” So what really went down?

Lucas Braathen had reached a boiling point and was in a major feud with the Norwegian Ski Federation over athlete’s marketing and image rights. He wanted the freedom to explore individual sponsorships and deals, but the federation wasn’t having it. After months of back and forth, Lucas finally made his move announcing his retirement. But instead of completely walking away from the sport, Lucas found a new path a year later—and it has now led him to represent Brazil in 2024. And no, it wasn’t just a strategic move. Choosing to ski for Brazil is actually a personal choice for him!

It’s where Lucas Braathen’s mother’s from, and he’s always felt a strong connection to his Brazilian roots.“Brazil has always had a major influence in shaping me,” he told Red Bull at his press conference in Salzburg this year. “Having the opportunity to represent 200 million Brazilians in World Cups, World Championships, and the Olympics is a dream come true.” With his joy restored and a fresh start, Lucas Braathen is ready to once again chase new titles in the upcoming FIS Ski World Cup season. So, watch out—the comeback is on, and it’s got Brazilian flair!